The Grey Bruce Health Unit has declared that the county has reached a critical threshold of COVID-19 cases, with more than 70 new cases in the past 36 hours. The GBHU is greatly concerned that if drastic measures are not taken by all Grey Bruce residents, the pandemic may spiral out of control locally. The main causes of new infections are people failing to follow lockdown protocols, social gatherings, and youth “bush parties”. Some individuals are also not being honest with the GBHU with respect to contact tracing and case management inquiries.

The GBHU is reallocating staff to complete the huge number of contact traces now required and hopes to have it completed in 2-3 days. In the meantime, the GBHU asks that everyone consider themselves a carrier for the next 48 hours and remain at home except for essential travel. Follow any directions given by public health, as well as the Provincial Stay-At-Home order.

In light of this growing crisis, the Council has made the difficult decision to close all Band Programs, including Kikendaasogamig Elementary and Nshiime Daycare, for Thursday April 15th, 2021 & Friday April 16th, 2021. The Food Bank will remain open. The vaccination clinic scheduled for Saturday, April 17, will continue as planned, for now. We will advise the membership if Public Health decides to cancel the vaccination clinic.

Our success so far in avoiding an outbreak in the community is the direct result of our diligence,  strength, and cooperation. This closure is a difficult step for all us but we are confident that we will get through this together. Please stay home, unless absolutely necessary and strictly observe pandemic protocols:

• Wear a mask outside your home.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Watch your distance and remain at least 2 meters from people you don’t live with.