The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit area is experiencing the lowest active case numbers since the beginning of March. We are asking residents to continue to follow the public health measures during this coming long weekend to ensure that these numbers continue the downward trend.

“Thanks to all LGL residents for following precautions to prevent COVID-19 infections; keep up the good work over this coming weekend,” says Dr. Paula Stewart, Medial Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.

It is important that people remember that we are still in a stay at home order during the long weekend. The Province’s Shutdown rules and Stay-at-Home Order don’t allow for gatherings of any size, even outdoors – no backyard barbeques with family or friends outside of your household.  You can get out in nature for walks and connect with people virtually or say hi to your neighbours from the sidewalk. Although people think about camping on the long weekend, only owners can visit their seasonal trailer for less than 24 hours to do things such as maintenance or if they’re going to stay for at least 14 days. The Stay At Home Order says that people could go to their cottage for one day to check out their property or to stay for 14 days or more. It is important that public health precautions are followed when there.

Limit travel to essentials only and refrain from taking trips to visit other areas. Some travel that is allowed:

Travelling to another residence if the individual intends to be at the residence for less than 24 hours because they are:

• between the homes of parents, guardians or caregivers, if the individual is under their care;
• making arrangements to purchase or sell a residence or to begin or end a residential lease; or
• moving residences.

Otherwise, the individual intends to reside at the residence for at least 14 days.

We are all tired of not being able to visit or socialize but try to remind yourself why we’re doing these things: to protect ourselves and loved ones; to get kids back in school and into a regular routine; to help our neighbours get their local businesses up and running again safely.

With the anticipation of more vaccine supply and the lowering of the age eligibility, we are hopeful that many more residents will be vaccinated in the coming weeks. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Dr. Theresa Tam is leading a campaign for 75% of Canadians to have at least one dose of vaccine this summer. This will not mean that we can relax precautions right away but will help to reduce the severity of COVID-19 in our communities.

For more information about precautions, testing, vaccine and cases, visit our website or call 1-800-660-5853.

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