Burlington mayor comments on the city’s first coronavirus case
Published March 11, 2020 at 9:13 pm
Marianne Meed Ward says the city is prepared to do its part to help stop the spread of coronavirus in the wake of a Burlington resident’s COVID-19 diagnosis.
Marianne Meed Ward says the city is prepared to do its part to help stop the spread of coronavirus in the wake of a Burlington resident’s COVID-19 diagnosis.
Earlier today (March 11), Dr. David Williams, Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, and Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region, confirmed that a Burlington resident was diagnosed with the virus.
It’s the first case of COVID-19 in the region and the 41st case in Ontario.
In a statement, Meed Ward says this is a travel-related case and the individual is in self-isolation at home.
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“I know our residents will be very concerned and have a lot questions over this news. While we have been advised by our healthcare professionals that the risk to our residents remains low, we are taking this very seriously,” Meed Ward wrote in a statement.
“We are taking a series of immediate steps to stay on top of this rapidly evolving situation, including enhanced cleaning, cancellation of non-essential travel, and the formation of a rapid response team to assess risk, take precautionary actions as needed and ensure continuation of essential services”
Meed Ward said more details on the city’s response will be released soon.
“The situation related to COVID-19 is evolving rapidly, with new information each day. As mayor, alongside council, we are committed to ensuring our residents stay as informed and educated as possible, particularly on how this impacts our local community and the steps we are taking.”
Meed Ward says the city will continue to provide regular updates.
“I encourage the leadership teams of our local businesses, community groups, schools and places of worship to stay connected with our public health partners and communicate all relevant information as proactively as possible so that our community stays empowered and informed,” she wrote.
Meed Ward is reminding residents to pay attention to expert advice and stay home if sick, wash hands regularly with soap and water (or use hand-sanitizer), and avoid high-risk travel destinations.
Anyone with symptoms is advised to call Halton Region immediately and self-isolate.
Cover photo courtesy of The Canadian Press
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