Another COVID outbreak in Grey-Bruce region has been tracked back to an outdoor party earlier this month.
The Grey Bruce Health Unit announced yesterday it was investigating multiple cases linked to a field party near Chesley on July 3. The health unit reported approximately 25 people attended the party, and attendees were “older teenagers and young adults.”
The health unit declared an outbreak after discovering five confirmed cases linked to the party.
“Anyone who attended this gathering is considered a high-risk contact and should isolate and be tested immediately,” states a news release from the health unit.
A second news release from the health unit states the region’s increase case counts results from two main activities: private gatherings such as birthday parties, and substance use with those infected with COVID-19.
The health unit stated they have seen evidence to indicate people are purchasing substances from, and using substances with others who are infected with COVID-19.
Based on data reported by Public Health Ontario, Grey Bruce Health Unit has had the highest weekly case incidence rates in the province for at least the last two weeks. Since June 25, the region has had weekly rates between 83 and 103 cases per 100,000 people. The provincial average for the same time period has been between nine and 10.9 cases per 100,000 people.
Grey Bruce Health Unit has the fourth-highest number of confirmed delta variant cases (119 cases) of all 34 health units in the province.
As of yesterday afternoon, the health unit reported 196 active cases of COVID in the region.
“With the surge of delta cases, there is nothing more important for every one of us in Grey-Bruce this month than to ensure we get the two doses of vaccine as soon as possible,” said Grey-Bruce medical officer of health, Dr. Ian Arra.
He said the region has the capacity and vaccine support to accelerate second-dose appointments and urged residents to rebook their second doses to an earlier date that is at least 28 days after their first dose.
In addition to getting both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, Arra is reminding everyone to keep washing their hands frequently, maintaining a distance of two metres from anyone outside your household, and wearing face coverings correctly.
