While COVID-19 cases in Ontario have shown an improvement recently, the rate of new cases in Chippewa County have led to an updated travel advisory issued by Algoma Public Health.
Following is a release from APH on the latest advisory, which will remain in place for 28 days and runs until Feb. 24.
Although levels of COVID-19 activity have been improving in recent weeks, rates of new cases in Chippewa County, Michigan continue to reflect ongoing risk of exposure from community spread. As a result, Algoma Public Health is providing this updated advisory for Algoma residents who regularly cross the Canada-US border into Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., and into Chippewa County for work.
Even if you are exempt from federal travel and quarantine restrictions:
- Avoid cross-border travel and use virtual options if possible.
- While in Chippewa County, protect yourself by avoiding crowded indoor spaces and staying 2 metres apart from other people at all times; this is important to do even when wearing a mask.
- Once back in Algoma, follow the provincial Stay-At-Home Order, by staying home as much as possible and not having close contact with people you do not live with, especially vulnerable people who are elderly or have underlying health conditions.
This advisory is in effect for 28 days until Feb. 24, 2021, at which point an update will be provided based on COVID-19 activity at that time.
APH acknowledges the challenges faced by essential workers, and is grateful for their role in allowing everyone to continue to receive essential goods and services. If you know of a family, friend or neighbour who must cross the border for essential reasons, consider the following ways to offer support:
- Help pick up and deliver groceries or a prepared meal
- Offer to help run errands in the community
- Call or link up virtually to chat, catch up, and stay socially connected
As part of the Provincewide Shutdown, Ontario’s Stay At Home Order all Ontarians to stay home as much as possible, with trips outside the home limited to necessities such food, medication, medical appointments, or supporting vulnerable community members.
Indoor organized public events and social gatherings are not permitted except with members of the same household. Limit close contact to your household (the people you live with):
- Families should not visit any other household or allow visitors in their homes
- Individuals who live alone and single parents may consider having exclusive, close contact with another household to help reduce the negative impacts of social isolation
Actions for cross-border travellers to protect yourself and loved ones
- Avoid cross-border travel and use virtual options if possible
While in Chippewa County
- Stay two metres away from other people at all times
- Avoid close contact with others and crowded indoor spaces
- Do not attend gatherings
- Avoid non-essential activities such as shopping or running errands
- Wear a mask or face covering at all times. If your work puts you in contact with other people where you are closer than two metres, use PPE to protect yourself (i.e. wear a medical mask and eye protection)
- Wash or sanitize your hands often and do not touch your face unless you have just washed your hands
Once back in Algoma
- Follow the provincial Stay-At-Home Order, by staying home as much as possible and not having close contact with people you do not live with, especially vulnerable people who are elderly or have underlying health conditions.
- Monitor yourself for symptoms every day
- If you become sick, isolate away from others and call to get tested for COVID-19
- Keep track of your daily activities, including the dates and times of where you go and who you are with
