The local Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jim Chirico responded to public calls against the extension of the shutdown in Parry Sound on Wednesday.
Dr. Chirico says “While it is frustrating to remain in shut down the North Bay Parry Sound District as a whole must rally together to get through this together,”
He said case counts are much lower in the district of Parry Sound but it is important to note that it has two individuals with confirmed preliminary positive results for a Variant of Concern of unknown strain, who were exposed through Community spread.
Dr. Chirico addressed businesses as well saying “The shutdown measures are also worrisome for our business Community”
He said the government is offering financially to help keep local businesses afloat but at the end of the day it’s the customers that help local business owners put food on the table and support their families.
Dr. Chirico said the local business community has been so cooperative in helping keep our community safe throughout this pandemic, and only hopes people will find ways to support them from home if able.