Hastings Prince Edward Medical Officer of Health Dr. Piotr Oglaza is asking that people avoid gathering this coming long weekend after a marked spike in COVID-19 cases in the area.
Since March 25 the Hastings Prince Edward Public Health unit region has seen 70 cases reported, 32 of which were reported on Wednesday alone, after going days with little or no cases.
In a statement released Wednesday afternoon, HPE’s Medical Officer of Health is asking everyone to refrain from gathering with anyone outside of their house during Easter weekend.
Oglaza also announced that in light of the spike there are some restrictions that will be tightened locally:
- Gatherings at private residences can not exceed more than 5 people (both indoor and outdoor gatherings)
- Bookings for restaurants, personal service settings, and accommodations must not be accepted from anyone who resides outside of HPEC
- All short-term accommodations (e.g. Airbnbs, B&Bs, cottages) are immediately closed, including all bookings made prior to March 30, 2021 (Exception: booking of accommodation is permitted for individuals who are travelling to or within our region for essential reasons, i.e. health care staff, medical appointments, and emergencies, and are in need of housing).
He cites that not only is there an uptick in cases, but there has been 20 cases in the area that have been identified as variants of concern which can be more easily spread.
