The Grey Bruce Health Unit received lab confirmation that a case of COVID-19 Omicron Variant has been identified in the community through diagnostic testing. It takes about 10 – 14 days for the results to return. The Omicron Variant is considered a variant of concern as it is more transmissible.

31 cases of Covid-19 were reported today in Grey-Bruce, with over 1400 high-risk contacts. Jeff Brookshaw, Principal of OSDSS, wrote to his school community today that two more cases had been identified there.  His email to parents and guardians said in part: "While I understand that this news may cause some anxiety, I wanted to reassure you there is currently no risk to our students and staff resulting from these particular cases of community transmission. Due to the unique circumstances surrounding these cases, Grey Bruce Public Health has determined that there is no impact or risk to the school community. As always, public health is the lead for managing all cases and will directly contact ONLY those who may have been exposed as identified through contact tracing."

The Health Unit's advice to the public remains the same: Washing hands frequently, watching distance (ideally 6ft), and correctly wearing a face covering protects against all forms of the COVID-19 virus. Vaccine is the best long-term defense. Both two-dose and third-dose vaccinations are effective in reducing the hospitalization rates from the Omicron Variant. We strongly recommend everyone to get fully vaccinated with 3 doses.