RELEASE: Low risk but a risk nonetheless

Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is advising clients who attended Peterson Orthodontics on December 14, 15, or 16 that they may have had low-risk exposure to COVID-19.

An individual who was at the clinic during these dates has tested positive for COVID-19. While the clinic has a screening process and infection control procedures in place, out of an abundance of caution, HPEPH is considering all individuals who attended the clinic on these dates to have a low-risk exposure to the virus. HPEPH requires anyone who has visited Peterson Orthodontics between December 14 – 16 to self-monitor and to get tested for COVID-19 if symptoms develop. Clients who visited the clinic on the abovementioned dates are encouraged to review the attached letter for more information.

While HPEPH does not typically disclose the location of COVID-19 cases in order to protect individuals’ privacy, this information is disclosed when needed in order to meet public health objectives such as prompt notification of potential contacts and reducing the risk of further transmission. Peterson Orthodontics is cooperating fully with the HPEPH and is working together with HPEPH to ensure all clients are notified as promptly as possible. Peterson Orthodontics has also voluntarily closed the clinic until the new year.

“The well-being of staff and clients of Peterson Orthodontics, and preventing the spread of COVID-19 in our community, are our top priorities,” said Dr. Oglaza. “While our current investigation indicates that the risk of exposure is low, all individuals who sought services at Peterson Orthodontics on these dates are required to monitor for symptoms and seek testing if symptoms develop.”

Information about where you can get tested can be found at hpePublicHealth.ca. To learn more about COVID-19, how you can protect yourself and what to do if you suspect you may be at risk, visit hpePublicHealth.ca or visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how to protect yourself and stop the spread COVID-19.

THE ABOVE IS A RELEASE FROM HASTINGS PRINCE EDWARD PUBLIC HEALTH