Toronto Public Health confirms first three cases of Omicron variant in city
Toronto Public Health reports today to the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health (OCMOH) three new cases of Omicron variant in the city of Toronto.
The first case was confirmed on February 11, 2020, while the second case was confirmed today. Preliminary investigations suggest the three individuals may have contracted the virus through a perinatal infection at the University Health Network hospital.
The hospital is one of over 20 hospital sites in the Toronto area that are part of the University Health Network (UHN), which provides health services such as acute care, emergency care, outpatient care, diagnostic imaging, surgery, and dental services.
“I would like to emphasize that our current infection control practices and protocols are working and our surveillance systems are being used to identify and monitor potential cases,” said Dr. David Williams, Medical Officer of Health.
“Public Health continues to work collaboratively with partners to protect our community and keep everyone safe.”
The latest cases are all being investigated by the City. Public Health will not be releasing further details at this time.
Dr. Williams added, “I would encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine, particularly those in the greater Toronto area and those who might have been exposed to the virus, as those with underlying health challenges are more susceptible to developing complications that can lead to severe illness, hospitalization and death, and also those who are immunocompromised or are pregnant or have other medical conditions.”
“The health and well-being of our community, and especially of the most vulnerable, is our top priority,” said Dr. Williams.
“Public Health teams continue to identify and track potential contacts of cases, through contact tracing and other contact investigations, to help in our overall goal of protecting vulnerable people as they fight for their lives against the virus.
“This includes, but is not limited to, people
