Mississauga mayor urges Ontario to prioritize hardest-hit areas with COVID-19 help

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Published April 14, 2022 at 12:07 pm

Mayor Bonnie Crombie is urging the provincial government to prioritize the hardest-hit communities in Mississauga and across Ontario as it makes COVID-19 antiviral treatments available to people.

With wastewater data showing that rates of infection are growing yet again in the midst of a sixth wave of cases in Mississauga and beyond, Crombie described the situation in Peel as “manageable,” but one that also requires vigilance.

“Our wastewater levels (showing infection) in Peel continue to rise, but (Peel Region medical officer of health Dr. Lawrence Loh) has told me this has been both gradual and expected, and that our situation is manageable at this time,” Crombie said at this morning’s (April 14) weekly media briefing.

Still, with the long weekend just ahead, people should be careful, the mayor added.

“My take-home message this long weekend is that if you are feeing unwell, please stay home,” said Crombie. “While we have excellent vaccination rates here in Peel, we can’t forget about all the young children under (age) five in our daycares and schools who can’t get vaccinated or wear a mask, and of course those who are immuno-compromised.”

Earlier this week, the Ontario government said it was expanding eligibility for COVID-19 antiviral treatments and PCR testing to more high-risk individuals.

“Doing so will offer increased protection to the most vulnerable and ensure hospital capacity remains stable,” government officials said.

Crombie said Peel Public Health is working closely with Ontario health officials to ensure those most vulnerable are given the tools they need to keep safe.

“So, that’s why I’m encouraging the Province to consider prioritizing the hardest-hit neighbourhoods, including those in Peel, as they make antiviral drugs available to the public,” the mayor said.

In the meantime, it’s also a good idea, said Crombie, to continue masking in busy indoor settings.

“In my travels across the city, I’m still seeing a lot of people masking in high-traffic areas like malls and grocery stores, and I think this is a good thing,” she said. “This wave is unlikely to subside until the end of May (according to the Province).”

The following higher-risk groups are currently eligible to be tested and assessed for antiviral treatments, such as Paxlovid, in Ontario:

  • individuals aged 18 and over who are immuno-compromised (have an immune system that is weakened by a health condition or medications)
  • individuals aged 70 and over
  • individuals aged 60 and over with fewer than three vaccine doses
  • individuals aged 18 and over with fewer than three vaccine doses and at least one risk condition (chronic health condition)
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