“Don’t let your guard down against COVID-19.”
That’s the message from our local Medical Officer of Health to all Simcoe-Muskoka residents, including those who are fully vaccinated.
Dr. Charles Gardner says even though the risk is lower and infection less severe for residents who have received two doses of the vaccine, there are still some breakthrough cases in the region.
He says COVID-19 cases have been rising and vaccines are the best way to prevent further public restrictions.
Dr Gardner also says the fourth wave is affecting younger people and COVID-19 cases have been rising in Simcoe-Muskoka in the past few weeks, with a majority of cases all involving people under the age of 44.
He says as we enter the fourth wave of the pandemic, people need to continue to follow public health measures, like masking and keeping their distance from others. He says the fall could be a lot worse.
Dr. Gardner is also worried about local healthcare workers who may be experiencing burnout.
Gardner says as cases mount, further restrictions could be put in place.
He says the unvaccinated population could face further restrictions this fall, especially if a vaccine certificate system is put in place in order to reduce exposure for the rest of the population and the most vulnerable, including children.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bJ9MjW3S1s&t=1874s
Be informed. Visit our website for more information about the #COVID19Vaccine or find a local location to get your vaccine. #DontWaitVaccinate #SMDHU https://t.co/3alfUSVSzS pic.twitter.com/7QNruYNQgH
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) August 23, 2021
#COVID19 case summary Aug 24, 2021
In #SimcoeMuskoka:
✅Sadly 4 new hospitalizations
✅165 active cases
✅21 new cases
✅37 cases resolved
✅73% of our 12+ population has been immunized with both doses
Full details here https://t.co/T6CnI6WFKi pic.twitter.com/7YB8uRcvfU— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) August 24, 2021