Hastings Prince Edward moves to COVID-19 ‘yellow zone’ Monday

Hastings Prince Edward moves up to the ‘yellow zone’ of the provincial COVID-19 colour framework, starting Monday.

There were 27 new cases in the region over the past seven days creating a local incidence rate of 16 per 100,000 people.

Six new cases and two recoveries were posted Friday. Four cases were confirmed Thursday and two Friday. Three were linked to an outbreak, two to local transmission.

Six cases are related to a workplace outbreak in Quinte West reported Nov. 12 and three related to a workplace outbreak in Belleville declared on Friday.

Yellow zone limits for functions, parties, dinners, gatherings held in private residences, backyards or parks to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

Limits for organizes public events and gatherings in staffed businesses and facilities is 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.

Religious ceremonies and funeral services can use 30 per cent capacity of the room indoors and have 100 people outdoors.

Restaurants, bars and food and drink establishments require patrons seated at two metre minimums or barriers between tables. A limit of six people can sit together. Dancing, singing and performing music is permitted with restrictions. Click here for full description

Public Healths says the incidence rate demonstrates how quickly rates of the virus are increasing in the region.

“It is crucial that we protect our vulnerable populations and our health care system capacity,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH). “The level of transmission in our region has increased quickly over the past week, requiring additional preventative measures. To avoid further restrictions, I ask all residents to redouble their efforts at this critical time. Please continue to ask yourself: ‘What can I do to reduce my risk of exposure and help limit the spread of COVID-19? What can I do to protect my family, friends and community?’”

HPEPH recommends all residents practice five fundamental actions to protect themselves and others:

Stay home when ill, as directed by provincial assessment tools;
Always physical distance with those outside your household;
Wear a mask or face covering in public spaces, as well as when physical distancing is difficult or not possible;
Wash your hands often, and clean frequently touched surfaces;
Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19.

In addition, HPEPH asks that all individuals respect requests to avoid non-essential travel and stay as close to home as possible. This is especially important when considering travel to and from regions with higher rates of COVID-19 transmission. HPEPH understands that it can be discouraging to witness increased rates of the virus in our region. Be kind to one another as we work together to stop the spread.