The Health Unit has declared a community COVID-19 outbreak after six members of the Nipissing University athletic community have tested positive for the virus.

While the individuals who tested positive do not live on Nipissing University’s campus they have had interactions at the Surtees Athletics Centre gym and at social gatherings in the community.

Other University buildings and properties are not impacted.

Close contact tracing has been completed and those who were in close contact were asked to self-isolate and arrange to be tested.

Anyone else who has attended social gatherings with those in the Nipissing athletic community are asked to monitor for symptoms.

If they develop symptoms of COVID-19 they should isolate immediately and arrange to be tested.

“Our staff are working with Nipissing University to provide important public health direction,” said Dr. Jim Chirico Medical Officer of Health. “Our communities are experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 illness. We all must act now to slow the spread. I urge you to:
• Assume everyone outside of your home has COVID-19 and take precautions.
• Limit travel outside the home:
o To attending school or work – if unable to work from home;
o For essential trips for groceries, medication and medical appointments.
• Do not travel out of district.
• Avoid socializing for now.
• Limit exercise and recreation to outdoor spaces where physical distancing is possible.
• If you have COVID-19 symptoms or feel ill, isolate immediately and arrange to be tested for COVID-19.”

 

(File photo by station staff)