The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) has reported one COVID-19 case in the Powell River local health area from July 18 to 24. More than 95 per cent of recent cases in B.C. are among people who are not fully-immunized against COVID-19.
Variants
The highly-transmissible Delta variant of COVID-19 has grown to nearly four in 10 cases in the province, up from fewer than one in 10 just two weeks before. The Delta variant of COVID-19 is much more contagious than earlier strains. One person can typically pass it on to between six and eight others. In addition, the Delta variant has an increased risk of hospitalization and death.
Vaccines are our most effective prevention against COVID-19
The good news is that COVID-19 vaccines are proving effective against the variants, especially for people who have been fully vaccinated. This is an important reminder that being fully immunized with 2 doses of COVID-19 vaccine is our most effective prevention against COVID-19.
Provincial Mask Recommendations
Masks are recommended in indoor public settings for all people 12 and older who are not yet fully vaccinated.
• You are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after dose 2
• Masks are optional for children aged 2 to 12
• Children under 2 should not wear masks
• Some people may choose to continue to wear a mask after they’re fully vaccinated and that’s okay.
Community Immunity
Health officials estimate that at least 90 per cent or more of the population will need to be fully vaccinated before “community immunity” can be achieved. Having 2 doses of COVID-19 vaccine is considered fully immunized.
The vaccine is available to anyone who wants a dose! Call Health at 604-483-3009 to book an appointment today.
Keeping safe
Step 3 includes a return to normal for indoor and outdoor personal gatherings; however, with the recent case announced in the qathet Region, Tla’amin Health recommends consider taking additional measures to stay safe and healthy such as:
• Organizing events outdoors rather than indoors, if possible.
• Maintain physical distancing, hand hygiene, and staying home if you are sick.
Questions?
Call Health at 604-483-3009 and ask for Marlane Christensen, Health Director