Attendees of 1000 Islands gathering near Brockville warned of possible COVID-19 exposure

Individuals who attended a social gathering at 1000 Islands Village rental properties earlier this month just outside of Brockville may have been exposed to COVID-19.

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit sent out the warning Wednesday evening, advising anyone who had taken part in the social gathering that happened on April 1 to get tested at a local assessment centre and monitor for symptoms.

If symptoms develop, people are being told to self-isolate and contact the health unit immediately at 1-800-660-5853.

“We have an obligation to inform the public when we know there is a risk of exposure and cannot identify close contacts directly. Social gatherings continue to be a key factor in the spread of COVID-19,” the announcement from the health unit said.

“Although lockdown measures were introduced provincially, this is a good reminder to limit your contacts to those in your household. Social gatherings like this may bring a sense of normalcy back but they put friends, co-workers and family members at risk since COVID-19 and the variants of concerns can spread very easily.”

Enforcement agencies were not notified of the event when it was happening.

Officers need to observe the infraction in order to enforce the regulation, the health unit said.

“If you are aware of an upcoming event or gathering or are witnessing a current gathering, please notify your local police,” the health unit emphasized.