On January 4, Grey Bruce Health Unit (GBHU) reported 73 new cases in the previous 24 hours. While three were location unknown, 14 cases were in Owen Sound, 11 in Kincardine, seven in Neyaashiinigmiing, five in both Georgian Bluffs and Saugeen Shores, four in both South Bruce Peninsula and Blue Mountains, three in Arran Elderslie and West Grey, two cases in each of the communities of Grey Highlands, Hanover, Huron Kinloss, Meaford and Southgate and one new case was reported in Brockton, Chatsworth, Saugeen First Nation and South Bruce.

At the time of reporting, nine of these cases were hospitalized.

These numbers largely reflect lab confirmed cases in vulnerable and at-risk populations. Direction from the Province of Ontario December 30 stated that symptomatic testing was to only be made available to vulnerable populations, individuals at risk of serious illness from COVID-19, and individuals who work or live in high-risk settings such as hospitals, long term care facilities or congregate settings.

While Dr Ian Arra, Medical Officer of Health with the GBHU, confirmed that hospital assessment centres in the region had been given direction to follow these new guidelines, due to previously booked appointments some centres may still be testing outside of these groups.

The numbers reported January 4 brought the total active cases in Grey Bruce to 973, nearly one quarter of the 4173 total overall cases. There have been two lab confirmed cases of the Omicron variant as well as "hundreds" by basic lab indicators and epidemiology.

GBHU suggests following the three Ws and the two As:
• Wash hands frequently
• Watch distance (ideally 6ft)
• Wear face covering correctly
• Avoid crowds
• Arrange for outdoor activities instead of indoors whenever possible

High risk contacts are no longer being reported due to the change in case and contact management. Positive cases are being asked to notify their close contacts directly.

LAST UPDATED: January 6, 2022