TISDALE — Tisdale residents are being alerted by the Saskatchewan Health Authority of an increased risk of COVID-19 variants of concern within the community.
As of Aug. 20, there are 28 active cases of COVID-19 in North East 3, which includes Tisdale and Hudson Bay. Of those, 12 are new cases.
The health authority didn’t reveal the number of case that are variants of concern within North East 3. Within the entire North East zone, which also includes the areas around Melfort and Nipawin, there are 66 cases of alpha, two cases of gamma, and seven cases of delta.
“Variants of concern are dangerous; they are highly contagious, transmitting more quickly and to more people within the community,” the authority said in a Aug. 20 media release. “The increased spread of COVID-19 and its variants result in more illness, hospitalizations and deaths. Many of those falling ill are much younger than previously seen during the pandemic.”
The Saskatchewan Health Authority said it is strongly urging Tisdale residents to:
- In public spaces, maintain two metres from others and wear a mask.
- Avoid gatherings, particularly indoors, at this time.
- Keep to your household bubble. Gatherings between households remain a primary driver of transmission.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.
- If you are able to work from home, work from home at this time. If you cannot, ensure that you are following all the guidelines in your workplace. Do not share any food or drink in the workplace, even in break rooms.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth or mask with unwashed hands.
- If you develop any symptoms, stay home and get tested as soon as possible. Testing is an important way to detect the COVID-19 virus and its variants early and stop the spread. Call HealthLine 811 or your physician for a referral for testing or visit your local drive-thru testing siteOpens in new window.
- When you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, get one. All vaccines are safe and effective, including against variants. Current vaccine information can be found at saskatchewan.ca/COVID19-vaccineOpens in new window.
