The Brazilian (P1) variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph region.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health says 70 per cent of local cases are caused by variants of concern.
Medical officer of health, Dr. Nicola Mercer implores residents to get serious about practicing public health guidelines.
Until the extended stay-at-home order ends, she asks residents:
· Only leave home for work, exercise or the most essential reasons;
· Always wear a mask around others;
· Maintain a six-foot distance whenever you go outside your home;
· Pre-register for the vaccine so you can be notified when it is your turn to be vaccinated; and
· Above all, do not get together indoors with friends or family.
Dr. Mercer says the variants are more contagious, they increase the risk of debilitating illness or death — particularly among people between the ages of 20 to 40.
Public Health spokesperson, Danny Williamson confirmed to myFM News that the Brazilian variant was detected in Dufferin County.
