Durham Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle, yesterday said vaccination is still the best defence against Covid-19 virus and its latest Omicron variant.
“While this new variant is no reason for alarm, it is important to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health measures that have proven to be effective throughout the pandemic,” said Dr. Kyle in an issued statement.
He encouraged residents to:
- Practice physical distancing where possible;
- Wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge;
- Always practice proper hand hygiene;
- Consider safety when gathering with friends and family;
- Continue to screen themselves and their children for symptoms of Covid-19; and
- Remain home when feeling unwell. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to get tested for Covid-19.
“Vaccination continues to be our best defence in the fight against Covid-19,” said Dr. Kyle.
Eligible residents are encouraged to get their third dose as soon as possible for the added layer of protection:
- Children five (born in 2016) to 11 (born in 2010) can book an appointment to receive their first dose at a Health Department clinic at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. For a listing of clinic locations for children and hours of operation, visit durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11.
- Residents 12 and older who have yet to receive their first or second dose can book an appointment at a Health Department clinic or visit any of the upcoming walk-in clinics. Vaccines are also available through select pharmacies and health care providers. For more information please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines.
The World Health Organization (WHO) designated the Omicron variant as a variant of concern (VOC) on November 26. VOCs are mutations in SARS-CoV-2 (the Covid-19 virus) that may make the virus more transmissible, virulent and/or may decrease vaccine efficacy. While the situation is fluid, at this time, four cases of the Omicron variant have been confirmed in Ontario. Currently, there is limited knowledge about this new variant which is being monitored and evaluated to determine if it is more transmissible, leads to more severe illness or hospitalizations, and decreases the efficacy of Covid-19 vaccines.
New travel rules
The Omicron variant was first detected in South Africa; as its impacts are being evaluated around the globe and as a precautionary measure, the Government of Canada has introduced enhanced border measures. At this time, foreign nationals who have travelled in the Southern African region (Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa and Zimbabwe) are not permitted entry to Canada. In the coming days, all fully vaccinated travellers arriving by air from departure points other than the United States will be subject to arrival testing. Fully vaccinated travellers will be required to quarantine while they await the results of their arrival test. Unvaccinated travellers will continue to be tested on arrival and day eight, and quarantine for 14 days.
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