Source: CBC
On Tuesday, Ontario reported 3,265 new cases of COVID-19 and 29 new deaths linked to the illness. The total number of hospitalizations increased to 2,336 from 2,271 the day before. Those aged 45 and up who live in one of 114 designated hot spot postal codes can begin booking appointments for a shot as of this morning.
This week, provincial health officials anticipate several significant shipments. The total number of cases is the lowest on a single day since April 7, despite the fact that labs completed only 34,000 tests and logged a total of 589,000 cases across the province. However, it is far too early to draw any conclusions from the minor one-day drop. According to health officials, the number of people receiving critical care has dropped for the first time since March 22, marking the first time that figure has dropped since March 21.
As vaccine doses run out, there will most likely be a lull in vaccine availability through participating pharmacies. The OPA is in talks with the health ministry about a possible pilot project. Local officials in Toronto and Peel Region announced yesterday that more doses would be directed to hot spots in their respective health units.
Health Minister Christine Elliott made no indication that the government is considering changing the plan. However, Elliot later told reporters that she takes the recommendation seriously and that a decision will be made soon. The new approach would also expedite the delivery of vaccines to critical workers, with the potential to prevent up to 20% of predicted infections among those aged 16 to 59.
