Grey Bruce is reporting 261 new lab-confirmed cases between midnight December 26 and midnight December 29.  There are now 552 active cases in the region, 90 of them in Owen Sound. 7 people are currently hospitalized with Covid-19. High risk contacts will no longer be reported due to the change in case and contact management .

Accuracy of numbers may be affected (under reported) because of the challenge in getting a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test to confirm infection.  As of tomorrow, December 31st, PCR testing and access to government-funded Rapid Antigen tests will be restricted to those at highest risk - those who are immuno-compromised, and those in retirement homes and long-term care homes and other congregant settings. 

Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, said in an announcement that given the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant, individuals with Covid-like symptoms should assume that they have the virus. Those who develop COVID-19 symptoms and are vaccinated will have to isolate for five days, as will anyone in the same household.

As of today, school re-opening in Ontario for in-person learning has been delayed to January 5 from Monday, January 3. 

Grey Bruce continues to have the lowest per capita vaccination rate among Ontario Health Units, but there are  plans to vaccinate every eligible resident (age 18 and older) with a booster shot in clinics throughout the region and mass vaccination sites in Port Elgin, Chesley and Owen Sound between January 5 and the 21st.  Appointments are available through the Ontario booking portal.

sources: media release, GBHU and media

Image - MPP Bill Walker receives his third Covid-19 vaccine from Dr. Ian Arra, Medical Officer of Health.