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The local medical officer of health spoke positively for the second consecutive week about this shutdown — of schools, of businesses, of outdoor recreation — being our last as we weather the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"By following public health measures and booking your vaccination appointment, you can help make this our last shutdown," stated Dr. Jim Chirico during the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit's weekly media availability.
While Chirico said it is concerning our district's case numbers are trending upward — he noted the local case counts in May make it the most positive cases in a single month since the onset of the pandemic — he balanced that by saying there is a reason for optimism.
"We just have to work hard to get through this. Hope is on the horizon. We can see that light. But, we have to be very careful not to reopen too quickly, too soon."
See related: Health Unit switches to provincial phone and online COVID-19 vaccination booking system
And: Local vaccine standby list started for those wanting their first dose
With the stay-at-home order extended into June and the Victoria Day weekend approaching, Chirico reminded the public of the importance to follow the public health measures and stay home except for essential reasons.
See related: Health Unit: No camps or cottages unless 'essential'
"We want this to be our last shutdown. We don't want to see a resurgence of cases," added Chirico. "Then we'll have a prolonged reopening."
See also: Dr. Chirico supports extension of stay-at-home order
Premier Doug Ford is expected to announce Ontario's reopening strategy Thursday afternoon.
Chirico acknowledged it can be difficult to continue with the health directives — and hard on mental health — to see other areas, such as the U.S. opening up more rapidly than here at home.
"Financially, mentally, socially, there are those who are disproportionately affected," by seeing the progress south of the border. "Everybody has a unique situation. It is very difficult to see them opening up in the United States and everybody would love to be in that position."
Chirico added, "There are supports available for people's mental health and financial supports when needed," said Chirico.
Although the May long weekend "marks the unofficial start to summer, it does not mark the end of COVID-19," Chirico reminded. "Until we are able to get everyone vaccinated, the only way to lower the provincial — and local — numbers is to follow public health measures."