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Local people often look forward to pike and pickerel fishing as well as getting out on the water to enjoy the many lakes and rivers in the area. Because of this, some local municipalities/cities/towns are opening their boat launches this weekend. Check your local area website for information on which ones are open.

The Health Unit is offering tips on safe boating and fishing during the COVID-19 response.

  1. Keep the physical distance of 2m/6ft when using boat launches
  2. Gatherings of more than 5 people are still not permitted
  3. Boat or fish by yourself or with people you live with – do not fish where prohibited
  4. Do not move any barriers placed by the municipality/city  
  5. The marinas are still off limits for public use – pay attention to local signage (Recent government changes are permitting staff to prepare the marinas for opening dates which are yet to be determined.)
  6. Be mindful of where to empty garbage
  7. Be safe when boating, kayaking and canoeing
  8. Do not use recreation facilities and amenities that are identified as closed under the provincial emergency orders such as parks, playgrounds, ball diamonds, water access points, washrooms and picnic tables.

The Health Unit staff are answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499. Public Health Inspectors are also available to discuss environmental health concerns. You can also get more information about COVID-19 by visiting www.healthunit.org/coronavirus or by connecting with LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter.

Government continues to prepare for the next stages of reopening the economy

TORONTO — As people gradually begin returning to work, the Ontario government continues preparing for the next phase of restarting the provincial economy through the implementation of its Framework for Reopening our Province. At the same time, the government has been supporting struggling business owners directly impacted by COVID-19 by providing tax deferrals and commercial rent relief, and by removing regulatory roadblocks.

Today, Premier Doug Ford, Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance, and Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, highlighted the ongoing preparations for reopening the economy, including the work of the Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on people's lives and livelihoods, but thanks to the incredible efforts of our frontline health care workers and all individuals and families, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel," said Premier Ford. "By Monday, thousands of people will be returning to work at hardware stores, retail outlets and garden centres across the province. Now with the right framework and the right guidelines in place, we can start getting more of Ontario back to work quickly and safely."

Over the past week, the government has begun easing restrictions on workplaces that can operate safely by following public health and safety guidelines. Today, garden centres and nurseries will be able to open for in-store payment and purchases. Hardware stores and safety supply stores will be permitted to open for in-store payment and purchases as soon as 12:01 a.m. on Saturday.  On Monday at 12:01 a.m., non-essential retail stores with a street entrance can begin offering curbside pickup and delivery.

These actions come as the province continues to face the unprecedented economic situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak. Today, Statistics Canada released its monthly job numbers, which showed a 689,200 decrease in employment in Ontario.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has hit Ontario's economy hard, and the latest job numbers highlight the need to get our businesses back up and running as quickly and safely as possible," said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. "Our government is absolutely committed to working with our business community and supporting workers to ensure that they can all emerge from this period of uncertainty stronger than before."

The province is also providing $241 million of a total $900 million to the new Ontario-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program (OCECRA), with contributions from the federal government, to deliver relief to small businesses and ensure they are ready to reopen their doors when the emergency measures are lifted.

Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19 also includes $10 billion in support for people and businesses to improve cash flows by providing a five-month penalty and interest-free period to make payments for the majority of provincially administered taxes, deferring the upcoming quarterly municipal remittance of education property tax, and providing up to $1.9 billion in financial relief by allowing employers to defer Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) payments for up to six months.

"We stand united as a province, shoulder to shoulder with those that have been negatively impacted by this virus," said Minister Phillips. "I want them to know that we are going to beat COVID-19. The Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee is working based on the Framework to Reopen Our Province, which set out three stages, as well as core public health criteria necessary to move towards reopening. I'm confident we'll soon be in a position to take another significant step. That should give us hope."

In order to make life easier for businesses faced with the unique challenges created by the global outbreak, the Ontario government has launched the COVID-19: Tackling the Barriers online portal. Businesses working to retool their operations to produce health-related products, or those struggling to operate in this new environment of physical distancing, can submit any potential roadblocks and suggest possible solutions through the website.

"Clearly, it is not business as usual for anyone, we understand that and we want to help," said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Associate Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction. "Our government is prepared to temporarily adjust our processes, rules, and regulations to accommodate unforeseen circumstances. I encourage everyone to visit the website to identify barriers or suggest solutions so we can get the economy up and running, and people back to work, as soon as possible."

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Ontario's Initiatives to Support Jobs and Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

CONTACTS

Ivana Yelich
Premier’s Office
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Rebecca Bozzato
Minister Fedeli’s Office
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Kwok Wong
Communications Branch
647 504-2774
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Office of the Premier
http://www.ontario.ca/premier

In true Lanark County style, numerous partners have come together to provide an important housing service for those in need during the COVID-19 crisis.

A collaboration of community agencies has developed and is staffing temporary self-isolation centres in two communities for people in precarious housing situations. One is for individuals who are COVID- 19 positive, and the other is for non-symptomatic individuals.

“Lanark County never fails to join together and collaborate when it comes to our community and the safety of its residents,” said Erin Lee, Executive Director of Lanark County Interval House and Community Support. “We have a long history of coming together when it is needed most.”

The project was made possible through funding from the Social Services Relief Fund issued by the Province of Ontario and administered through Lanark County Social Services. Lanark County Mental Health took the lead to apply for the funding, with support and endorsement from about two dozen local agencies and businesses, which have offered coordination, staffing and in-kind and other contributions.

“It is truly remarkable how quickly our service providers and local businesses came together when this need was identified,” said Rebecca Fromowitz, Executive Director of Lanark County Mental Health. “Now some of our most vulnerable residents can have a safe place to stay that will help them to meet crucial needs during this difficult time.”

One centre, located in Perth, consists of a block of rooms and a number of staff who will work limited hours at an on-site office set up. This is a temporary option for those in Lanark County and Smiths Falls who are homeless, living in a group setting, or precariously housed and have no opportunity to socially distance or quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic. These individuals have already tested positive for COVID-19, or have symptoms and need to be tested or are awaiting test results.

The collaboration for this site includes assessment services, arrangements for transportation, on-site support as well as virtual services for medical needs (daily wellness checks by the Lanark County Paramedic Service’s Community Paramedics), harm reduction, mental health, food and basic provisions. The Leeds Grenville Lanark District Health Unit is guiding infection control protocols. Clients who test positive for COVID-19 will be quarantined at the centre voluntarily. Clients staying at the centre must remain on the site property at all times except for required hospital/medical treatment.

Referrals to the COVID-19-positive centre should come through agencies by calling the Lanark County Interval House and Community Support (LCIHCS) crisis line (available 24/7) at 613 257-5960 or 1-800-267-7946 or TTY: 613-257-1952.

The centre for non-symptomatic individuals experiencing homelessness consists of a block of rooms in Smiths Falls and also includes food support and assistance with additional relevant supports.

Those individuals can telephone the County at 613-267-4200 or 1-888-952-6275 during business hours and Victim Services Lanark County after hours at 613-206-1486.

“The isolation centres are a good news story of the community coming together to support very vulnerable individuals,” said Lanark County Social Services Director Emily Hollington, adding individuals experiencing homelessness can continue to contact the county for support. “Thankfully, with the Social Services Relief Fund, we are able to support individuals over a much longer period of time.”

“We all have to do our part to flatten the curve, and many partners have stepped up to do so,” added Lee. “We are just a really fortunate community. When there is an issue, Lanark County finds a solution. I don’t know of any other community that mobilizes the way we do, and I know we will continue to have conversations and work together to help our most vulnerable long after this crisis passes.”

Partner agencies include Carebridge Community Support, Cornerstone Landing, Lanark County Interval House, Lanark County Mental Health, Lanark County (Social Services), North Lanark Community Health Centre, Open Doors for Lanark Children and Youth, Ottawa Valley Family Health Team, Rideau Community Health Services, The Table Community Food Centre, United Way East Ontario, Lanark, Victim Services Lanark County, Lanark County Paramedic Service, and the Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. Endorsement/support has come from the Almonte General Hospital, Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital, Lanark County OPP, Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital, Smiths Falls Police Service, Town of Smiths Falls, and the Lanark County Situation Table.

For more information, please contact:
Erin Lee
Executive Director, Lanark County Interval House and Community Supports
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613-878-5700

Rebecca Fromowitz
Executive Director, Lanark County Mental Health
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613-806-3502

Steady Decrease in COVID-19 Cases Required Before Beginning Next Stage of Reopening

TORONTO ― The Ontario government is allowing certain businesses and workplaces to reopen as long as they comply with strict public health measures and operate safely during the COVID-19 outbreak. Those permitted to start up include seasonal businesses and some essential construction projects.

Today's announcement was made by Premier Doug Ford, Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance, Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health has provided general recommendations on how the openings of businesses and workplaces could be implemented to support safe operations, including strict adherence to health and safety requirements.

"We are allowing certain businesses to reopen under strict guidelines because we are confident they can operate safely and adapt to the current environment," said Premier Ford. "While further reductions in the spread are needed before we can begin reopening the province, we have the right framework and the right workplace guidelines in place to do so gradually and safely."

The government, in partnership with Ontario's health and safety associations, has developed more than 60 guidelines in response to COVID-19. These sector-specific measures will help employers prepare their workplaces so they can be reopened safely and ensure workers, customers and the general public are protected.

By following the proper health and safety guidelines these businesses will be permitted to begin operations on Monday, May 4 at 12:01 a.m.:

  • Garden centres and nurseries with curbside pick-up and delivery only;
  • Lawn care and landscaping;
  • Additional essential construction projects that include:
    • shipping and logistics;
    • broadband, telecommunications, and digital infrastructure;
    • any other project that supports the improved delivery of goods and services;
    • municipal projects;
    • colleges and universities;
    • child care centres;
    • schools; and
    • site preparation, excavation, and servicing for institutional, commercial, industrial and residential development;
  • Automatic and self-serve car washes;
  • Auto dealerships, open by appointment only;
  • Golf courses may prepare their courses for the upcoming season, but not open to the public; and
  • Marinas may also begin preparations for the recreational boating season by servicing boats and other watercraft and placing boats in the water, but not open to the public. Boats and watercraft must be secured to a dock in the marina until public access is allowed.

"Ontario workers and businesses have shown exemplary cooperation and resilience throughout the course of this crisis," said Minister Fedeli. "We're beginning to ease restrictions on select businesses as we carefully and methodically re-open Ontario's economy and continue together on our path to renewed prosperity."

Although certain businesses are being permitted to reopen, it is critical that people continue to stay home, practise physical distancing and only go out for essential reasons, to pick up groceries, prescriptions or to keep a medical appointment. It is through these simple actions that Ontario is making progress to stop the spread of COVID-19.

"As we begin planning for the next phase of our fight against COVID-19, Ontarians should continue to stay home as much as possible to ensure we stop as quickly as possible the spread of this virus," said Minister Elliott. "While we have made tremendous progress in our shared battle against this new virus, we are not done yet. We need to keep up the fight by continuing to practise physical distancing and good hygiene habits."

On April 27, the government released A Framework for Reopening our Province, which outlines the criteria Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health and health experts are using to advise the government on the loosening of emergency measures, as well as guiding principles for the safe, gradual reopening of businesses, services and public spaces.

While the government remains in Phase One of Ontario's Action Plan in response to COVID-19, Protect and Support, allowing certain businesses and workplaces to open under strict guidelines demonstrates the government's commitment to balance the needs of the economy with the health and safety of the people of Ontario.

"People's efforts are paying off and we can see a light at the end of the tunnel," said Minister Phillips. "Our response has always been based on the current status of the outbreak in our province, and on what makes sense for Ontario. To be clear ― we haven't moved into the reopening phase of our response to COVID-19. Not yet. But based on the best public health advice available to us, we are a step closer."

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

CONTACTS

Ivana Yelich
Premier’s Office
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Rebecca Bozzato
Minister Fedeli’s Office
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Office of the Premier
http://www.ontario.ca/premier

Hard copy library books may be out of the question right now, but as the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy says; “Don’t panic.” The Perth Union Library and its staff are still here for you, even if it is from a socially appropriate distance! Wondering how to use our resources, or what’s even available? Read on, dear patron. 

1 – Check out our new website

 If you haven’t explored our new website yet, now is the perfect time! Resources for kids, digital services, exploration & enrichment, as well as our catalogue for book searches are ready for your perusal with just an easy click from our homepage at  www.perthunionlibrary.ca

2 – Explore our online book collection

Dear patrons, we know that there is truly nothing like a “real” book, but have you checked out Libby yet? Libby is a free app with which you can download e-books and audiobooks using your library card. Online copies might not be “the same,” but these resources are a treasure all on their own. Audiobooks are a great way to enjoy a story hands-free, and who knew that reading in the dark could be so cozy? You can set your text size, brightness level, and even colour scheme from the settings menu. Remember that your library card number is listed near the barcode on your card.

3 – Find your next book

Sometimes finding your next read is difficult. We’re here to help! Not only does our website have a staff picks page, but we also have a direct link to NoveList. NoveList is a great way to help match you with the titles you want; just search for a favourite book and click through for a list of similar titles or authors. You can also browse book titles by genre or by description. If you are wondering what the last book you checked out from the Perth Library was called, remember that you can log in to your account on our website, and view your circulation history!

4 – Watch movies for free

Kanopy is a movie-streaming service that you can access for free using your library account. Search films by genre or topic, set parental controls, and even check your viewing history. The Kanopy library is an especially great way to explore some new ideas if you are needing a break from Hollywood media. Be aware though; you only get five free movies per month! What a great excuse to set up a virtual movie night, and enjoy a film together – apart.

5 – Visit the museum

Feeling a need to see something besides the usual surroundings? Visit the museum from your couch! Many cultural spaces around the world are opening up their displays to virtual tours for free. These can be found with a few easy clicks from the Perth Union Library’s homepage. First, select “Programs & Events” then “Adult Learning.” This will take you to a page rich in easy-click links to lead you on your next great online adventure. You can even visit the Metropolitan Opera! “Nightly Met Opera Streams” at 7:30 p.m. Remember that you can easily bookmark a page from your internet browser - look for the three dots representing a drop-down menu, or a star near the web address.

6 – Build your digital skills

Libraries are a place of shared knowledge. Even in the midst of so much change, this continues to be true. At the Perth Union Library, we recognize that the online world can be a difficult and overwhelming place to navigate. Feeling stranded is the worst! To help you on your way, we have included a resource link on our Adult Learning page called “TechBoomers.” The TechBoomers site offers a wide range of tutorials from internet safety and shopping online, to how to use Facebook. If you are feeling that you have these things figured out pretty well, you can even find tutorials on how to learn computer programming, run a successful blog, or advice on how to get your business online.

7 - Free Wifi

The library is a place of connection and we are all finding new ways to connect with our community these days. As always, allow us to get you connected digitally; if you bring your own device, you can connect freely to the library’s wifi network from anywhere around the library building. Now that the weather is getting warmer you can actually linger in the library garden, applying appropriate physical distancing, of course!

8 - Explore the world

While we may not be able to pack our bags and hop on a plane right now, we can still explore the wonders that the world has to offer right in our own homes! Under the Digital Library tab of our website, you can find Global Road Warrior and AtoZ World Travel, both of which are fantastic resources packed with information about the many places and cultures of our wonderful world.

9 - Connect the kids

We've got tons of fun stuff and educational resources for kids on our website! On the Kids’ Resources page, you’ll find links for at-home learning, exploration, and play with ideas for offline activities as well. For the younger set, click over to our Babies & Toddlers page where you’ll find tons of guides and storytimes to help you build your child’s early literacy skills. Parents, we haven’t forgotten you - you now have your very own Parents’ Corner filled with information and resources to support you and your growing readers! Kids can sign up for our new Pen Pal Program to connect with other kids in our community (and to get some reading & writing practice in!)

10 - Connect with us

Connect with us on social media for all the latest updates - follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! If you’re missing the friendly faces you usually see at the library, check-in with our staff on the library’s blog to see what we’re up to (find it under the “About” tab of the website, under “News”). Miss getting together with your book club to chat about what you’ve read? Join the Perth Union Library Together Apart Book Club on Goodreads. We’re currently reading The Outlander by award-winning Canadian author Gil Adamson which is accessible free for all with your Perth Union Library card. Join in the discussion!

This is just a short list of the ways the library is here for you. Hop on our website for current information about the library closure, links to mental health support, and our regular catalogue. We’re also on social media, and would love to meet you there! It is such a wild change to be distant from our wonderful patrons. We hope that you are all keeping well. Have questions or just want to say hi? Reach out to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and come visit our virtual space soon!

The Perth & District Library is here for you! We are providing alternate services and our virtual branch is always open 24/7. Please visit our website and follow us on social media for up-to-date information on your library services during COVID-19 closure.  

Julie Hansen
Perth & District Union Public Library
613.267.1224
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Thursday, 30 April 2020 15:08

Opening of the Boat Launch

The Township is re-opening the public boat launch today, April 30, 2020.

The Ontario government is further expanding the list of essential workers eligible to receive free emergency childcare during the COVID-19 outbreak. Those who will benefit include people who work in the food supply chain, retirement homes, grocery stores and pharmacies, and certain federal employees, including the military.

Read the full press release.

Wednesday, 22 April 2020 15:16

Uncovering the Facts on Face Coverings

Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

The Government of Canada has recommended the use of face coverings when physical distancing (2m/6ft apart) is difficult to maintain and has mandated that all air passengers use them during travel. With this in mind, now is a good time to uncover the facts on face coverings. Knowing the facts will help you and your family make an informed decision about wearing a face covering during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Outside of air travel, wearing a face covering is a personal choice. A face covering is a non-medical mask made of cloth that covers the nose and mouth. It should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face and be secured with ties or ear loops. Here are some considerations:

  • Face coverings protect those around you by preventing your respiratory droplets from contaminating others or landing on surfaces. It is a way to cover your cough or sneeze.
  • Given recent evidence related to transmission from persons who are pre-symptomatic or have no symptoms, a face covering is another measure you can choose when keeping a distance is a challenge, such as on public transit/in taxis and in smaller grocery stores or pharmacies.
  • Remember, wearing one does not replace the need to continue with other public health measures, such as staying home as much as possible, avoiding close contact with others outside of your household and thorough and frequent hand hygiene practices.
  • Face coverings should not be placed on or used by: children under the age of two, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
  • You can make your own face coverings with materials you have on hand. Check out these ‘sew’ and ‘no sew’ instructions along with guidelines if you choose to purchase one made by someone else.

When wearing a face covering, take the following precautions to protect yourself:

  • Wash your hands before putting it on & taking it off.
  • Avoid touching your face covering while using it.
  • Use your own face covering and do not share yours with others.
  • Clean surfaces that your dirty face covering touches.
  • Change it as soon as it gets damp or soiled. Cloth face coverings can be laundered with other items using a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly. Check out the Do’s and Don’t’s of using shared laundry.

Wear cloth face coverings only and keep the medical masks for our health care workers! Remember the best protection is to stay home, practice physical distancing and wash hands often. For more information on face coverings: Government of Ontario and Government of Canada.

The Health Unit has staff answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns for the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499. Public Health Inspectors are also available to discuss environmental health concerns. You can also get more information about COVID-19 by visiting www.healthunit.org/coronavirus or by connecting with LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter

Tuesday, 21 April 2020 14:09

Tennyson Road Reconstruction

The Province of Ontario’s List of Essential Workplaces identifies critical infrastructure repair of roads as essential work.  Drummond/North Elmsley Township will be starting the reconstruction of Tennyson Road the week of April 20.  Culvert replacements and ditching will take place first followed by pulverizing and resurfacing of the 14.7 kilometres of roadway which will likely be done in sections.  The public can expect delays and periodic stretches of single-lane traffic and detours while culverts are being replaced.  The project is expected to take several months.

In addition to the usual traffic control and signage, anti-viral precautions will be taken for the safety of contractors working on site. This will include physical distancing measures and facilities for handwashing and disinfecting at the construction site.

Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

Physical activity is good for the body, mind and soul. During times of stress, physical activity helps us cope with life challenges.

It is okay to go outdoors for a walk, run, or bike ride if you are not under quarantine or in self-isolation due to illness or exposure. Being outdoors calms the brain, increases creativity, enhances learning and decreases anger and aggression. While out, be respectful of one way traffic flow patterns and avoid recreational areas or parks that are closed.

  • Walk, run or bike by yourself or with people you live with. Be sure to practice safe-cycling.
  • Go to places with no or very few people and keep a minimum distance of 2m/6ft from others.
  • Talk to neighbours over the fence or at a distance, like at the end of the driveway. Ensure this doesn’t lead to groups of neighbours chatting together – keep at least 6 feet apart (two arms lengths).
  • If you go fishing, make sure you do so in a place that is open to the public, and stay 6 feet away from other people.
  • Respects the signs that say a trail, beach, park or other place is closed.
  • If walking in wooded areas, protect yourself from ticks. Apply a repellant with DEET. Wear light coloured clothing that covers exposed skin, tuck your pants in your socks and wear fully enclosed shoes, not sandals.
  • Stay away from wild animals or animals you don’t know to prevent bites.
  • Wash your hands when you get home.
  • Remember to check for ticks. If you find a tick, use tweezers to grasp the tick by the head as close to your skin as possible. Pull it straight out, gently but firmly. Clean and disinfect the bite area.

If you are self-isolating, there are some great ways to be physically active and reduce sedentary time while indoors, or on your outdoor property!

  • Take advantage of online workouts. Many of these are free such as YMCA at Home Programs.
  • Check with your local fitness or yoga studio – they may have some online options for you.
  • Have a home dance party (even if you are by yourself).
  • Use video games like “Just Dance” or Wii Fit to make physical activity fun for the family!
  • Perform domestic chores, on your own property, such as cleaning or gardening. Get kids to help outside. Outdoor chores seem more fun than vacuuming!
  • Walk on your own property or walk on the spot. If you are on the phone, stand or walk around instead of sitting down.
  • Stand up whenever possible. Challenge yourself to stand every 30 minutes. If working at home, consider setting up a standing desk by using a high table or stacking a pile of books.

Physical activity and eating well go hand and hand. Remember to stay hydrated! Check out the Health Unit’s “Healthy Eating” section on the website for tips on getting the nutrients you need for good health, including a healthy immune system.

The Health Unit has staff answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns for the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499.  Public Health Inspectors are also available to discuss environmental health concerns. You can also get more information about COVID-19 by visiting www.healthunit.org/coronavirus or by connecting with LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter

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