Public Notice: Risk of COVID-19 Transmission in Oxford County

On August 1 2021, an individual in Oxford County tested positive for COVID-19. Southwestern Public Health has identified an additional 8 cases linked to similar exposures.

The individual visited several businesses during the time frame that they were infectious. As such, out of an abundance of caution and in an effort to stop further transmissions, Southwestern Public Health is asking anyone who visited the following places to get tested, even if they have not shown symptoms or are fully or partially vaccinated:

• Pittock Conservation Area – Seasonal Campground only – anytime during the month of July, particularly from July 16 onward.
• Brickhouse Pub in Woodstock on July 29, particularly from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
• Smith-LeRoy Funeral Home in Woodstock on July 29 from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m., or any associated private gatherings after a funeral on that date.

“This notice is specifically related to the potential risk of person-to-person infection; it is not a reflection on these local businesses,” says Dr. Joyce Lock, Medical Officer of Health. Southwestern Public Health conducted an assessment at all three businesses and concluded they each demonstrate effective cleaning, disinfection, PPE and infection prevention and control practices. As well, staff at these businesses are considered low-risk of exposure due to proper PPE wearing.

Anyone who visited these businesses during the times indicated is advised to self-monitor and visit a local COVID-19 Assessment Centre for testing. If you are contacted by public health as a positive case or a high-risk close contact, please provide as much information as possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19 further.

“Our goal remains to prevent transmissions so we can keep cases low, businesses open, and lessen the impact on our hospitals and healthcare system. This is about preventing illness and deaths,” says Dr. Lock. “Public health is obligated under the Health Protection and Promotion Act to maintain privacy for all individuals in a health investigation. At no time will your name be shared publicly or with high-risk contacts.”

For more information or questions, call 1-800-922-0096 ext. 9 to speak with a member of the COVID-19 Response Centre team.