Peel region COVID-19 numbers decreasing while in lockdown

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Ontario reported 1,707 new cases of COVID-19 on December 1, but fortunately, Peel Region is showing decreasing number of confirmed cases while in lockdown. 

Peel region has reported 373 new cases as of December 1, with 4,298 still active, 374 deaths and a total number of 25,762. 

Peel has been on a consistent decline for the past several days, showing 572 cases on November 26, down to 517, 516, 503, 390, and now 373. 

Alongside Toronto, Peel has been in lockdown since November 23, and will remain until 28 days have passed, in which public health will determine if Peel will continue to stay in the Grey level or be promoted to Red, or Orange. 

Toronto has been showing sky high numbers while in lockdown, reaching 727 new cases as of December 1.

Ontario overall is showing 118,199 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus, which 100,012 resolved cases and 3,663 deaths. 

Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliot, alongside Solicitor General Sylvia Jones and General Rick Hillier, Chair of the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force held a press conference at McKesson Canada, located in Brampton on December 1.

The pharmaceutical distribution company proved to be the type of facility that will be significant in storage and distribution of the upcoming vaccine.

“This is a massive undertaking and here in Ontario we are fortunate to have the health, industry and logistical expertise to get the job done,” said Premier Ford. “To support our planning, I've been on the phone with the Prime Minister, my fellow Premiers, the vaccine manufacturers, distributors, storage experts, and the health care sector to make sure we can roll out this vaccine when ready as quickly and efficiently as possible. I will continue to press the Federal government for more information on the status of these vaccines.”

The Province is taking on a number of partnerships in regard to storage, distribution, transportation, administration, tracking and the monitor of pharmaceuticals. 

Ontario has started the readiness of receiving vaccines by December 31, with the first doses to be available in 2021. 

“Collaborating with industry experts in health care and logistics will be key to ensuring we are prepared by December 31 for the first phase of rolling out COVID-19 vaccines, when they are available,” said Minister Elliott. “Under the leadership of General Hillier, the province will be ready to launch Ontario's COVID-19 immunization program.”

Added Solicitor General Jones: “Our government is leveraging the expertise and resources of key industry partners to ensure Ontario is ready for the safe and efficient rollout of COVID-19 vaccines across the province. We are confident these key partners will support the work of our task force, led by General Hillier, to prepare for the next step of Ontario's recovery and keep Ontarians safe.”

The Ontario government's task force formed with scientists and professionals, is choosing distribution centres that meet the requirements which includes, ultra-cold storage, delivery timing and priority populations for vaccination. 

For further information, please visit Ontario.ca.