Over the past few weeks there has been a rapid increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in our region. Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is advising all residents that this is a critical point in time as we work to contain the virus. Everyone is urged to continue following public health directives to protect their own health, the health of their loved ones, the most vulnerable in our community, the capacity of our health care system and our economy.
As of today, there are 47 active cases of COVID-19 in our region. In addition, hundreds of individuals have been identified as close contacts of positive cases and are currently in mandatory isolation while monitoring for symptoms. Five workplace outbreaks are currently active. The local infection rate has risen to 25.5 per 100,000.
“Our investigations show that many recent transmissions of COVID-19 are occurring during close contact between individuals. Unfortunately, people are continuing to have close contact with others or go to work while they are feeling unwell,” says Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at HPEPH. “If you are experiencing even mild symptoms, please do not assume it is the common cold or upset stomach. If you have any symptoms of the virus, seek testing, avoid close contact with others and do not attend work.”
Employers are also asked to do their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community by making accommodations for illness related absences, even if an employee’s symptoms are mild. Anyone who is advised to self-isolate, or who is experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms must remain at home, not go to work, and seek testing as advised by the provincial self-assessment. If employers require a sick note from employees, HPEPH can provide one. In addition, HPEPH is calling on employers to formally assist in ensuring compliance with self-isolation requirements. Effective today, workplaces are required to enhance screening measures to ensure that no employee who is currently under orders to self-isolate enters the premises. More information about these requirements is available in the Section 22 Class Order issued today.
HPEPH recognizes that for some residents being away from work because of illness can raise fears about job security and financial security. Please be aware that if you are required to self-isolate because of COVID-19, it is against the law for your employer to fire you or punish you. There are services available to support those who must be absent from work during the pandemic. These include:
- Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB): Provides income support to employed and self-employed individuals unable to work because they are sick or need to self-isolate due to COVID-19 or have an underlying health condition that puts them at greater risk of getting COVID-19.
- Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB): If you can’t work because you’re taking care of a loved one, you may be eligible for the CRCB.
- Community Advocacy and Legal Centre resources (CALC): CALC has compiled a comprehensive list of benefits available during the pandemic.
- Assistance for newcomers is available through Quinte Immigration Services at 613-968-7723. They can help determine what benefits are available from the government.
All residents are also advised that COVID-19 testing is free and confidential, even if you do not have a valid Ontario Health card. Public Health will not disclose your personal information or status to anyone else. For more information about what happens after you are tested for COVID-19, visit our COVID-19 page.
THE ABOVE IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM HASTINGS AND PRINCE EDWARD PUBLIC HEALTH.
