First new COVID-19 case reported in Sudbury in a month

File

Sudbury — There's a new COVID-19 case in Greater Sudbury, Public Health Sudbury & Districts reported early Monday evening. It is the first new case since June 22 and first active case since July 4.

The person is under the age of 19 and was tested Sunday. It is the area's 68th positive case, is believed to be travel-related, and the person is now self-isolating.

"Through contact tracing, Public Health will notify all close contacts directly," the health unit said in a news release. "If you are not contacted by Public Health, you are not considered a close contact."

As the province reopens, Public Health said the new case is a good reminder that caution is still needed.

"Although permissible for up to 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors, non-essential in-person gatherings of any size should be limited," the health unit said. "Community spread remains possible and is likely in Sudbury and districts. Limiting our contacts and in-person interactions as much as possible is critical in reducing transmission of COVID-19."

Unless people are from the same household or social circle, they should keep two metres (six feet) apart and wear a face covering if distancing is not possible. Face coverings must be worn in all indoor public spaces, and they must also be worn in other indoor spaces where distancing is not possible.

Close contact is permitted within “social circles” and among members from the same household. A social circle can only include up to 10 people and must always be with the same people. You can only belong to one social circle.

"If you have a COVID-19 symptom, get tested," the health unit said. "People who are asymptomatic, who are concerned that they have been exposed to COVID-19, or those who are at risk of exposure to COVID-19 through their employment are also encouraged to contact an assessment centre and get tested."

All residents who are planning to travel should be aware that COVID-19 is still circulating at different levels around the province, public health said.

"The safest options are to stay in the area of your home community or to stay in the region."

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada is directed to self-isolate for 14 days from their arrival in Canada.

For more information or if you have questions or concerns, visit the health unit's website, call 705-522-9200, or toll-free 1.866.522.9200.