The Renfrew County District Health Unit has said that there have been no additional positive COVID-19 tests from Madawaska Valley District High School staff or students.
The unit also says that not all of the students who tested positive for COVID attended the social gathering related to the outbreak. The unit is stressing that the public must show empathy to those who are affected, be supportive, and avoid spreading rumours. Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Cushman says we must all remember to be COVID-kind. He says that often technology can be used negatively, and can push people to feel alone, embarrassed or ashamed. They are linking resources like PrevNet and the Phenox Centre for Children and Families (613-734-2374) to help inform parents and teens about bullying and mental health.
In other Health Unit news, starting early next week, appointments will be available for Renfrew County and District Residents 75 to 79 years of age looking for a COVID-19 vaccine. However, the Health Unit is asking people in that age group to stop calling the call center until further notice next week. Dr. Robert Cushman says that people calling have put a high demand on their call center, and are urging people to register online with the province instead. They are also asking people to not call to ask if they are eligible for a Vaccine, and only call to book an appointment.
They say three-quarters of people over 80 years of age have been vaccinated with their first doses in the district.