Update from Dr. Vera Etches
March 30, 2022 – Special statement from Dr. Vera Etches
We continue to see evidence that the level of COVID-19 in Ottawa is rising. The COVID-19 wastewater viral signal is very high and increasing, as is Ottawa’s test per cent positivity. Hospitalizations and outbreaks are currently stable; however, we know these are lagging indicators, and wastewater levels can provide an early signal of trends to follow. Today, Ottawa Public Health posted on social media a snapshot of the trends we see in Ottawa.
The pandemic is not over, and we are currently experiencing another resurgence.
Ottawa Public Health has informed the office of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health of the concerning levels of COVID-19 in Ottawa, and the province is carefully monitoring the impact on health system capacity. Ottawa Public Health is also reaching out directly to people over 50 who could benefit from another vaccine dose.
We highly recommend Ottawa residents get vaccinated with all the doses of the COVID-19 vaccine that you are eligible for as soon as possible. Compared to two doses, a third dose provides stronger protection against hospitalization, as well as symptomatic infection. For some at higher risk, a fourth dose is needed. Visit our website regularly for the latest information on vaccine eligibility and to stay up to date.
We also highly recommend individuals to continue wearing a mask indoors, especially when physical distancing may not be possible or proves to be challenging in crowded areas.
If you become unwell or have any symptoms, stay home. Do not attend work or go to school when you are sick and have a plan in the event you or someone in your household needs to isolate.
Some people experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, feeling increasingly unwell, or suspect they have COVID-19 may be eligible for clinical assessment and antiviral treatment. Visit the Province of Ontario’s website or speak to your primary care provider for more information about COVID-19 antiviral treatment.
We will continue to monitor these indicators and keep you informed. Visit our website often and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Etches, Vera. Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa Public Health, March 30, 2022, https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-health-topics/novel-coronavirus.aspx#March-30-2022–Special-statement-from-Dr-Vera-Etches.
