Leeds, Grenville, Lanark’s top doctor urging residents to take ‘pause’ from going out until more Omicron information is available

Until more information on the Omicron COVID-19 variant is available, the top doctor for Leeds, Grenville and Lanark is asking residents to take a “pause” from going out.

Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) Medical Officer of Health Dr. Paula Stewart is encouraging people to stay at home as much as possible, and work from home if that is an option.

However, if an individual does choose to go out, she is encouraging them to not rely simply on the vaccine for protection, but to continue following protocols such as wearing a mask and maintaining distance from others.

“Following all those precautions that we know about can help us keep safe while the researchers are really figuring out a little bit more about what this virus is all about,” Dr. Stewart told CityNews Ottawa on Tuesday, December 14.

She is also encouraging people to re-think their plans for the upcoming holidays.

“I think it's about keeping into your nuclear family,” Dr. Stewart explained. “If you're going to connect with others, better to do it virtually.”

Dr. Stewart is also encouraging eligible residents to get their booster shot as soon as they can.

“Because of Omicron, and because the 50's are now eligible, we're working actively with our partners to open up more space between now and Christmas, so that people have more opportunity. The pharmacies also have vaccine — there isn't a shortage of vaccine, if we order more we get more of the same for the pharmacies.” she said.

More information on where to book a vaccine is available on the LGLDHU's website.