A portion of the Notre Dame Bay area of the province woke up under Alert Level 4 this morning after a cluster of COVID-19 cases was confirmed in the region.
The lockdown ranges from Lewisporte to Summerford. Included in the case count are seven confirmed cases, as well as seven presumptive cases and one probable case.
A map showing the area from Summerford to Lewisporte. (Via Google Maps)
According to Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, all the current cases appear to be connected, however there is evidence of community spread.
She says that is why they’ve decided to go to level 4 at this time.
She says there are “quite a few” contacts with this cluster. As well, she adds that in alll likelihood this will be a variant, which means increased transmissability. She says they are trying to slow the spread while also giving Public Health time to find the source.
To learn more about Public Health’s guidance for Alert Level 4, click here.
Meanwhile, Dr. Fitzgerald is addressing travel concerns related to the lockdown in Notre Dame Bay as many in the province are on the move for the May 24th long weekend.
For those heading into the area, she recommends sticking with your household bubble and staying on your campground or cabin area to avoid contact with others. She adds that outdoor activities are known to be safer, so people should stay outside as much as possible.
Dr. Fitzgerald also addressed those from the area who may be travelling to another part of the province for the long weekend.
She says people from the area should try to stay in that area. However, for people who are leaving they’re recommending staying within your household bubble and limiting contact with others.
Dr. Fitzgerald says not everyone from the area is going to test positive, and they do want people to get out and enjoy the weekend, but people should take extra precautions.
