The medical officer of health for Windsor Essex is sounding the alarm after 67 COVID-19 cases were identified over the last four days.
On Monday, the Windsor Essex County Health Unit reported 20 new cases. Among the cases are 13 close contacts and two travel-related cases. Five cases are still under investigation.
"The warning bells are ringing loudly now for us and we have to pay attention. We still have the opportunity to reverse the direction where we are heading but we need to take action today," said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.
There are now 113 active cases in the community. One person is in the hospital receiving treatment for COVID-19.
The health unit is investigating several parties linked to COVID-19 cases, including one on the University of Windsor campus.
"The number of close contacts each one of us is having is increasing at a rapid rate and the parties and social gatherings are happening much more, leading to many more exposures and putting many people at a much higher risk of contracting COVID-19," said Dr. Ahmed.
Dr. Ahmed said if cases continue to rise, it could lead to further restrictions and potentially overwhelm the healthcare system.
There are four long-term care and retirement facilities experiencing outbreaks.
There are also several cases linked to local schools, however, no outbreaks have been identified.
