Dr. Jim Chirico supports the idea of the extended lockdown in northern Ontario, however, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit's chief medical officer is also in support of the return of in-school learning in the north, which resumes Monday.
"I am also in full support and recommended schools in northern Ontario resume in-person learning," stated Chirico during a Friday afternoon online media conference.
"I can understand it can be confusing as we are saying stay home and can only go out for essential reasons. I believe school is essential for our children's mental, physical, and social well-being."
Chirico sympathizes with those families who have poor internet service or parents who have no choice but to take time off to support online learning if schools remained closed.
"Many students in our area face barriers with online learning including access to reliable internet," said Chirico.
"For some students school is a safe place from their home or their place where they receive meals that they would not have at home.
"It can also be difficult for parents to balance an online curriculum. Some who provide essential services may need to give up shifts to stay home with their children which can add financial stresses to an already challenging situation."
Chirico says to date, the Health Unit has not seen the spread of COVID-19 in elementary or secondary schools within thie district.
"There have been no outbreaks and the school environment has not contributed any community spread of the virus," noted Chirico.
"With the current infection prevention and control measures in place returning to school, presents as a low risk. This means the benefits of in-person learning outweigh the risk of COVID-19 at this time."
Chirico admits that could change.
"However, we need to monitor the situation and if circumstances change we will adapt and take appropriate action."
