The District of Squamish says it is now aware of COVID-19 positive cases in Squamish based on individuals who have shared their diagnoses on social media.
However, the district won’t be informed of individual COVID-19 cases in Squamish. The Ministry of Health’s current policy is to not release community-specific case information.
“We are aware that we will not be informed by Vancouver Coastal Health of individual cases of the virus in Squamish, unless there is a situation where that person attended a larger meeting or event or a busy facility that would make it difficult for public health to contact individuals who may be affected,” said Mayor Elliott.
“In this case, a broader public statement would be issued to alert other citizens who may have been in the same location at the same time.”
Vancouver Coastal Health works closely with those who have COVID-19 to get a list of people they have been in contact with. The public health officials then reaches out to inform those who have been in close contact with that individual.
“The approach to containment of the virus remains the same, in that sick people should stay home, and everyone else should practice good hygiene and social distancing,” said Mayor Elliott.
Meanwhile, the District of Squamish Emergency Operations Team is meeting daily and is poised to make any necessary changes.
The district said it has activated its Emergency Operations Centre and is focussed on the health and safety of employees and ensuring that critical services remain in place.
“The experienced team at the district will continue to be professional and measured in their approach to this pandemic. The community is in good hands as we ensure that essential services such as emergency response, utilities and operations remain in place,” Mayor Elliott said.
The District of Squamish continues to follow the expert advice of British Columbia’s Ministry of Health in response to the evolving COVID-19 situation, she added.
“I urge residents to stay calm and remain confident in the advice of our experts here in British Columbia.”