Just one new COVID case, no new deaths in region

— People shouldn’t feel too at ease now that COVID-19 cases are stabilizing in Waterloo Region, especially as stores and amenities begin reopening.

“Everything we do now, everything we do today and this weekend, that’s going to affect our curve in the future,” acting medical officer of health Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang said during Friday’s regional briefing.

“I need to remind people it’s not the time to let up. Please continue to follow the recommendations because there’s always a lag when we get reported cases and when people get infected,” Wang said. “People have to continue to take measures so that we don’t see two weeks down the line an increase in cases because people haven’t been taking measures.”

Just one new COVID-19 case was reported in the region in public health’s Friday update, and no new deaths.

Confirmed cases are at 1,099, and deaths at 113. The last new death was May 19.

Of the current local cases, 797 are resolved and 24 are hospitalized. Outbreaks are declared at 12 long-term care and retirement homes.

The outbreak at the Conestoga Meats plant in Breslau is declared over, after the first cases were reported in late April. Of the total 91 cases, 80 are resolved. “We have declared the outbreak over because we have seen a significant reduction in the number of new cases,” Wang said.

A total of17,739 tests have been done in the region. Friday’s number was up more than 2,000 compared to Monday’s, when testing eligibility expanded to anyone who was worried they had the virus or were exposed regardless of having symptoms. Wang said people are welcome to go out shopping to the stores that have reopened, but they should be sure to practise physical distancing, regularly wash hands, wear a mask and follow store guidance intended to ensure enough space between shoppers.

Regional Chair Karen Redman said the weather forecast looks good for this weekend, and she said people should get out and enjoy it.

“I encourage you to find some time to get outdoors and enjoy fresh air for your physical and mental health, but I ask you to be wise about where you go so that you do not run into crowds,” Redman said.“Let’s not give this opportunistic virus any more opportunities to spread.”