Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/Nov.  30, 2021

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is advising individuals who attended Linguine’s Restaurant (Belleville) on November 19, 20, 22, 23, 24 or 26 that they may have had an exposure to COVID-19. HPEPH is in the process of investigating several cases of COVID-19 that were present at the restaurant on these dates. Linguine’s Restaurant (Belleville) has closed voluntarily and temporarily while the investigation is underway.

All individuals who attended Linguine’s Restaurant (Belleville) on November 19, 20, 22, 23, 24 or 26 are advised to:

• Monitor closely for symptoms of COVID-19.
• If symptoms develop, even mild ones such as a runny nose or sore throat, isolate at home and away from others, and seek testing.
  • To seek testing, book an appointment online for the Belleville or Trenton testing centre. You can also call 613-961-5544.
  • For other testing options, please visit hpepublichealth.ca/getting-tested-for-covid-19/.
  • When seeking testing, please provide investigation number 2238-2021-51326 to the testing centre.
• While testing is not necessary for low-risk contacts if symptoms are not present, please ensure you are monitoring closely for symptoms and seek testing if any symptoms (even mild ones) develop.

While HPEPH does not typically disclose the location of COVID-19 cases in order to protect individuals’ privacy, this information is disclosed when needed to meet public health objectives such as prompt notification of potential contacts and reducing the risk of further transmission. HPEPH is in the process of contacting high-risk contacts related to these cases. All high-risk contacts will be instructed by HPEPH to self-isolate immediately and to get tested.

“The current increase in COVID-19 cases in our region is very concerning and is resulting in greater risk of community transmission. Proof of vaccination in restaurants helps to reduce the potential risk for individuals who were at Linguine’s, however I am urging individuals who were present at the restaurant on these dates to monitor closely for symptoms in order to protect those around them,” says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Acting Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH. “To protect one another, residents must take careful action. If you have symptoms, even mild ones, get tested. If you must gather, keep it small and ensure you are symptom-free. If you are not vaccinated, get vaccinated as soon as possible. Your choices will impact the health and well-being of those around you – so please make responsible ones.”

• To book your appointment for COVID-19 vaccination at an HPEPH clinic, visit covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/.
• Many pharmacies also offer COVID-19 vaccination and offer evening and weekend hours. Find pharmacies offering vaccine at covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.