KFL & A Public Health confirmed today that the Omicron variant has been identified in the Kingston area. The health unit was notified through a sample from a person who tested positive for COVID-19.
“At this time, the person identified with the Omicron variant does not have a travel history. KFL & A Public Health continues to investigate the COVID-19 case to identify transmission, ”Public Health wrote in a statement today.
The news comes as Kingston confirmed 101 new COVID-19 cases in the region today, a record for the region. Three new outbreaks were declared and there have been 2 new deaths. In total, there are 429 active cases in the Kingston area.
KFL & A Public Health reminds the public to be vigilant at this time and to follow public health measures.
This includes:
• Get fully vaccinated when eligible to help protect the most vulnerable.
• Check daily for COVID-19 symptoms.
• Stay home, isolate, and get tested if you have any symptoms, even mild ones.
• Avoid social gatherings.
• Stay 2 meters away from people you don’t live with and wear a mask indoors.
• Consider pickup, curbside delivery, or other shopping times, especially if you’re at higher risk for illness.
This new Omicron variant of COVID-19, which was first detected in Ontario in early December and first discovered in South Africa, has spread rapidly around the world and has so far been identified in more than 80 countries.
“Be diligent and continue to comply with public health measures leading up to the holiday season. Continued efforts by individuals and families to limit or avoid social gatherings, detect symptoms on a daily basis, and stay home if you have any symptoms will help our community limit the spread of Omicron, ”said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Officer KFL & A Public Health Physician.
Reference-ygknews.ca