KFL&A Public Health is implementing enhanced measures to address the confirmation of the Omicron variant and record high COVID-19 case counts in our region. All COVID-19 close contacts of cases MUST isolate for 10 days regardless of vaccination status. If you are a close-contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case and have not yet been contacted by public health, please self-isolate and get tested.
“All evidence appears to show that Omicron will spread more quickly than we’ve seen with the Delta variant,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “It’s important that individuals follow our new contact tracing requirements to help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our region.” added Dr. Oglaza.
New requirements for all positive COVID-19 cases include:
- All close (high-risk) contacts must self-isolate for 10 days from the date of their last exposure of an individual with COVID-19, regardless of their vaccination status or previous positive result. Regardless of a negative PCR test result, they are still required to self-isolate for 10 days from their last date of exposure.
- Seek PCR testing on or after day 7 as a clearance test, regardless of symptoms. If they do not complete a day 7 testing, they are required to self-isolate for an additional 10 days, or until they receive a negative test result.
- If a close (high-risk) contact of a person positive with COVID-19 is unvaccinated, their household members (regardless of immunization status) must also isolate until the close contact has a negative PCR test on day 7.
- If new symptoms occur, seek additional PCR testing immediately.
COVID-19 testing appointments can be booked online or by phone at:
- COVID-19 Assessment Centre, Beechgrove Complex (51 Heakes Lane, Kingston)
- Lennox & Addington Assessment Centre (Lennox & Addington County General Hospital Westdale Campus in Napanee), please call 613-354-8254
- Participating pharmacies in the KFL&A region
The best way for individuals to protect themselves against the new Omicron variant of concern is to:
- Get fully vaccinated and seek a third dose when eligible.
- Screen for symptoms of COVID-19 daily, stay home, isolate, and get tested even if symptoms are mild.
- Avoid social gatherings and limit visiting others or having guests over.
- Stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with and wear a mask in indoor spaces.
- Consider curbside pick-up, delivery, or alternate hours for shopping, especially if you are at a higher risk for illness.
- Clean your hands frequently.
For the most up to date information visit Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario.
