Dr. Lawrence Loh says there is a ‘slight uptick’ in COVID-19 cases in Brampton

At a conference today (August 19), Dr.

At a conference today (August 19), Dr. Lawrence Loh, Interim Medical Officer of Health, Peel Region, said that there has been a ‘slight uptick’ in COVID-19 cases in the Region of Peel.

According to Dr. Loh, as of this morning, Peel Public Health investigated 4,092 cases of COVID-19 in the City of Brampton; 3,832 cases of which have been recovered, 167 were active and 93 have passed away. 

“Public Health is tracking a slight uptick in cases,” said Dr. Loh.

“Our investigations have indicated that these cases and exposures are linked primarily to returning travellers and social events like barbecues and backyard parties.”

Dr. Loh went on to explain that like trends elsewhere, the increase is being seen in young adults under the age of 50.

“I must be very clear; we may be in Stage 3, but around this world, the pandemic is not over; not by a long shot,” said Dr. Loh.

“These outbreaks represent failures to prevent transmission in the first instance and they demonstrate how important it is for us to take COVID-19 seriously.”

During the conference, Dr. Loh emphasized the importance of complying with federal orders upon returning to the community from abroad and to self-isolate for 14 days.

“If you are emerging to socialize to make the most of summer, remember to limit proximity duration and numbers in your gatherings,” said Dr. Loh.

“Also, remember that being outside is not a guarantee. Wherever you are interacting, we must all practice the core for hand washing, distancing, masking where we can’t distance and where it’s mandated and staying home if you are sick.”

Additionally, Dr. Loh reminded the public to practice the “core four” with others beyond your social circles and to remember who you’ve interacted with.

“It’s just like speed limits; just because you can go 100 kilometres an hour, doesn’t mean you should, especially if the weather is bad,” said Dr. Loh, adding that in pandemic terms, the weather is still “pretty terrible.”

“COVID-19 is waiting to capitalize on a poorly-considered interaction or a crowded gathering to spread onwards and without a vaccine, we all remain susceptible,” he said.

“I’ve said this before that this is the hardest part of the pandemic; we can now enjoy the games we’ve won in the past few months, but we can’t become complacent.”