As lockdown starts, Hastings Prince Edward equal to red zone with 107 active cases

Walks in spring’s glorious sunshine are not cancelled this Easter long weekend, though provincial emergency brake measures are now in effect, along with additional restrictions in place in Hastings Prince Edward. – Janet Elson photo

As daily record numbers of COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the region – now at 107 active cases – Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health is pleading with people to make every effort to avoid close contact with anyone from outside their immediate household.

“This is not the time to be complacent. It is important to understand that we have not only seen a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, but a significant increase in variants of concern (VOCs) in our region and surrounding areas. Evidence shows that VOCs may be up to 70 per cent more contagious and may cause more severe illness than the original strain of COVID-19.

“This holiday is often celebrated by gathering with family and friends, but I encourage you to find alternative ways to connect this year. I know that everyone is tired. I know the warm weather and vaccination rollout is encouraging, and it can be easy to let your guard down…I am asking you to please, keep it up a bit longer.”

APRIL 3: A fourth double-digit increase in as many days brings active COVID-19 cases to 107 in the region.

Twenty-two new cases were recorded Saturday – three in Prince Edward County, nine in Quinte West, five in Belleville, three in Centre Hastings and two in Deseronto.

There are now seven cases in Prince Edward County, 36 in Belleville, 38 in Quinte West, 13 in Centre Hastings, 10 in Deseronto, two in Tyendinaga and one in North Hastings. There are 44 variants of concern posted. Three people are in hospital and two are in ICU.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 people is now at 55.2 with a seven-day positivity rate of 2 per cent (former red level). The seven-day average contacts per case is at 5.1.

A fourth outbreak (one person) was recorded today in Quinte West. There are now 13 cases related to outbreaks in Belleville and Quinte West.

There have now been 565 total cases, 449 recoveries and six deaths.

There have been 33,280 vaccines administered and 2,089 people have been fully vaccinated.