The number of new COVID-19 cases in Ontario has increased significantly. This morning (March 21st), the number of active cases in Ontario jumped up 58 from yesterday to a total of 369. A man in his 30’s from Ottawa is said to have contracted COVID-19 from close contact. The province says so far there’s been two deaths and six people have recovered. Over 23,300 people have been tested for COVID-19 across Ontario with upwards of 7,200 cases still under investigation and almost 16,000 negative cases. New information is updated on the provincial website twice a day and reflects cases reported by public health units.
Communities across Renfrew County have done their best to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus and to date we have no local cases. Back in January the County of Renfrew Paramedics started stocking up on emergency supplies such as masks, gloves and bio-protective suits. Recreation facilities, libraries and municipal buildings in our area also started closing before the state of emergency was issued in Ontario. Hospitals and long-term-care facilities have started restricting visitor access and health officials are preparing for when we do see the first case show up locally.
Yesterday afternoon (March 20th), the Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) was designated the Regional Admissions Centre for any COVID-19 patients in Renfrew County. This means anyone in the county who needs to be hospitalized due to the novel coronavirus will be sent to the PRH.
The Renfrew County and District Health Unit is encouraging residents to take social distancing measures seriously. This includes avoiding non-essential trips into the community and limiting your exposure to others. The local health unit says you should still try to spend time outside whenever possible, but maintain a 2-meter distance from others.
Anyone who thinks they may have COVID-19 is asked to self-isolate and seek advice over the phone. You are asked to contact either Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000) or the Renfrew County and District Health Unit (613-735-8654 ext. 577).