COVID-19 risk level raised to high amid recent increase in hospitalizations and nearly 40 deaths
For the first time in a year, the COVID-19 community risk level has been raised from moderate to high as officials report an increase in hospitalizations and deaths in recent weeks related to the virus.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) says 39 people have died since September "in which COVID-19 is either the underlying or contributing cause of death," with all but one of them being individuals 65 years of age and older.
- Download the CTV News app to get local alerts on your device
- Get the latest local updates sent to your email inbox
Health officials are encouraging residents to get this season's COVID-19 vaccine to help protect themselves and those around them.
Individuals six months and older who are not up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines can receive the updated XBB formulation free at participating pharmacies, some health care providers and health unit clinics.
The health unit also recommends rolling up your sleeves to receive the influenza vaccine, available to anyone five years or older at participating pharmacies. Children six months to two years old may receive the flu shot from a doctor, nurse or health unit clinic by appointment.
Meanwhile, SMDHU says it's best to stay home when sick or with any symptoms of respiratory illness, clean hands and disinfect surfaces frequently, and mask when in public settings.
The health unit also suggests anyone 60 or older, or those at a higher risk of severe illness, to self-test for COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test and seek medical care if ill.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Celine Dion delivers stirring comeback performance at Paris Olympics opening ceremony
Against the rainy Paris night sky, Celine Dion staged the comeback of her career with a powerful performance from the Eiffel Tower to open the Olympic Games.
Jasper wildfire: 'Several weeks' before residents can return, premier says
Premier Danielle Smith said Friday afternoon in Hinton while weather conditions are cooler, the Jasper fire is still considered out of control and that Jasper residents can expect to be away from their homes 'for several weeks.'
Missing 3-year-old boy found dead in creek in Mississauga, Ont.: police
A three-year-old boy has been found dead a day after he went missing in a park in Mississauga, Ont., Peel police say.
Irish museum pulls Sinead O'Connor waxwork after just one day due to backlash
An Irish museum will withdraw a waxwork of singer-songwriter Sinéad O'Connor just one day after installing it, following a backlash from her family and the public, it told CNN in a statement on Friday.
Winnipeg senior's account overdrawn for $146,000 water bill
A Winnipeg senior is getting soaked with a six-figure water bill.
FBI says Trump was indeed struck by bullet during assassination attempt
Nearly two weeks after Donald Trump’s near assassination, the FBI confirmed Friday that it was indeed a bullet that struck the former president’s ear, moving to clear up conflicting accounts about what caused the former U.S. president’s injuries after a gunman opened fire at a Pennsylvania rally.
Driver charged after flashing high beams at approaching police
Orillia OPP arrested and charged a driver with impaired driving after flashing their high beams.
Turpel-Lafond won't sue CBC over Cree heritage report that took 'heavy toll': lawyer
The lawyer for a former judge whose claims to be Cree were questioned in a CBC investigation says his client is not considering legal action against the broadcaster after the Law Society of British Columbia this week backed her claims of Indigenous heritage.
Major Canadian bank experiences direct deposit outage on payday
Scotiabank says it has fixed a technical issue that impacted direct deposits on Friday morning.