As the confirmed COVID-19 case totals has reached a point that allows us to release location data while preventing potential stigmatization of one location, the Grey Bruce Health Unit is releasing the number and location of cases by municipality. While the list indicates the location where confirmed cases reside, the location of where these cases acquired the disease is unknown and could be in any location in Grey and Bruce. It is safe to presume that every location in Grey and Bruce is potentially affected- “Community Spread”.

Confirmed community spread means the virus exists in many locations beyond the location of the confirmed cases. Identifying the home municipality of a confirmed case should not provide any reassurance to those who may consider it safer to go to a different locale as there are presumed cases in every municipality. With community spread, there is a level of risk associated with any location.

The Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ian Arra, is strongly recommending against all non-essential travel to and from Bruce and Grey Counties. “If you are already in Grey Bruce, residents or visitors alike, stay home and exercise appropriate social and physical distancing. We all ought to do this to break the chain of transmission.”

Dr. Arra is recommending this to protect the health and safety of all Grey Bruce residents and visitors. Every social interaction that does not take place will help in preventing the transmission of COVID-19 and in turn prevent spreading the virus to vulnerable groups, including older adults and people with pre-existing health conditions.

The number of cases by municipality will be released in the daily Situational Report issued by the health unit and posted on the Grey Bruce Health Unit website at approximately 4:00 p.m. daily.

Everyone needs to practice prevention: stay home and avoid all non-essential travel, wash your hands often, ensure coughing in your sleeve, and maintain physical distancing to reduce transmission.

For more information on COVID-2019 see the Grey Bruce Health Unit website or call the Public Health Help Line at 519-376-9420 ext. 3000.

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit