By Jenna Cocullo, Local Journalism Initiative
Chatham-Kent’s COVID-free week has come to an end.
CK Public Health reported three new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend.
One of the cases is linked to a workplace outbreak in Chatham-Kent, which is not open to the public.
The cumulative total of cases now sits at 374 and the death toll remains at three. No one is hospitalized.
None of the active cases are staff or students belonging to Chatham-Kent’s school boards, according to CK Public Health officials.
However, St. Clair Catholic School Board and Lambton-Kent District School Board have probable cases on their hands.
A probable case in this situation refers to a close contact with a positive case.
On Monday two secondary classes, approximately 35 students, and two teachers at Ursuline College Chatham (The Pines) were sent home.
Six students on the bus with St. Anne Catholic School, Blenheim, have also been sent home.
There were also 28 students from Harwich Raleigh Public School and 17 students from Blenheim District High School who were dismissed as per the direction of Public Health due to a probable case of COVID-19 in the school communities, according to LKDSB officials.
“There are no confirmed cases in our schools and this is an abundance of caution,” said director of education Deb Crawford.
Parents, guardians and students are being advised not to panic or take action. Crawford said parents should wait to hear from CK Public Health.
“What people need to know is CK Public Health will contact any families. If you do not receive a call, you are not considered close contact and there is no action for you to take in this case,” she said.
Note: A previous version of this article stated 54 students from Harwich Raleigh Public School were sent home, based on information received from LKDSB officials. The board has since issued a correction that it is only 28 students.
