As you may be aware, Ottawa has had a significant rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19 the past week.  Dr Paula Stewart regularly updates the Mayors in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark.  In today’s email, Dr Stewart references the Ottawa concerns and with her permission, I share part of her email.

“We are actively monitoring the COVID-19 situation in Ottawa where there has been  a resurgence in the number of people with COVID-19 since July 18. This is a major concern for our region as many Leeds, Grenville and Lanark  people visit Ottawa for shopping or recreation, health visits, and for connecting with family and friends. While all ages have been affected, the biggest group is the 20 to 39 year olds. Many are linked to large indoor social gatherings or parties, showing how quickly COVID-19 infection can spread among people with close contact.”

We must all continue to practice the public health regimen – frequent hand washing, physical distancing, wearing a face covering and staying home if you are not feeling well – that you have heard many times since March 15.  Ottawa this week and Kingston a few weeks ago are geographically close to us – places that many of us visit for speciality items, doctors and other necessities.  Please be careful and avoid community transmission of COVID-19.