The Northwestern Health Unit says recent cases of COVID-19 in the region have come from travel to high-risk areas, and leadership is recommending against travel to the United States at this time.
“Since the U.S. border reopening, we have seen a number of cases in people who have recently travelled to Minnesota,” said Medical Officer of Health with the Northwestern Health Unit, Dr. Kit Young Hoon, in her weekly conference with regional media members on November 30.
“That state currently has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infection in North America and I recommend that local residents avoid travel to high-risk areas for non-essential reasons, at this time.”
Young Hoon’s recommendation comes as the requirements change for re-entry into Canada following short trips to the United States. The United States and Canadian border was reopened for those who are fully vaccinated on November 8.
Previously, travellers trying to enter Canada had to provide a negative PCR test, taken at their own expense of between $150 and $300, no more than 72 hours before they arrived at the Canadian border.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an upcoming removal of that policy on November 19, which has since taken effect as of November 30.
This means that Canadians, permanent residents and those covered under the Indian Act who are fully vaccinated and who re-enter Canada within 72 hours of leaving will no longer have to provide a PCR test result.
This also applies to children under 12, regardless of their vaccination status. However, the NWHU explains that the child cannot attend school or daycare for 14 days, or participate in any extracurricular activities.
“If someone under 12 years old visits the United States, they must stay home from school or daycare, limit contact with others, avoid extracurricular activities, and must wear a mask and physically distance when in contact with non-household members for 14 days after returning,” explains Dr. Young Hoon.
Any trips outside of Canada longer than 72 hours still require a negative PCR test when you return, and those who are not fully vaccinated are still required to take a PCR test.
As well, anyone aged 12 and older travelling by plane, train or ship in Canada must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before boarding, and they must provide proof of vaccination.
“Remember that your destination may have different public health measures than Ontario, which could put you at a greater risk of being exposed to COVID-19. While away, practise all precautions to prevent infection and avoid large indoor gatherings,” adds Young Hoon.
On November 29, Minnesota reported 44 COVID-19 deaths and 4,450 COVID-19 infections. The state has the highest seven-day rate of new infections in America.