The Northwestern Health Unit says there’s been an increase in COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated residents in the Emo area.
Health Officials have declared an outbreak associated with Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program (SCAP) and SonShine Christian Kindergarten that affects many households and age groups.
An outbreak is declared when there are two or more cases in a facility and spread of COVID-19 within the setting cannot be ruled out.
The health unit is contacting all individuals identified as high-risk contacts and providing further instruction.
At this time, officials say the school and childcare facility remain open and low risk students and vaccinated staff who are not contacted by NWHU can continue to attend.
NWHU, Rainy River District School Board, SCAP, and SonShine Christian Kindergarten continue to work together to ensure that the facility is safe and that all possible control measures are put in place.
By taking this cautious approach and declaring an outbreak the health unit says it protects students, staff and the community at large.
NWHU also reminds the public that the risk of getting and spreading COVID-19 is directly related to your actions.
To prevent future COVID-19 outbreaks, the health unit stresses that residents self-isolate and get tested when symptoms present.
The health unit goes on to say that vaccination, avoiding large gatherings, physical distancing and masking are all proven methods to prevent getting and spreading the virus.
