Simcoe Muskoka Public Health reports at most six cases among campers or staff at Muskoka Woods. Rosseau’s local public health has instructed all staff to isolate and test for COVID-19 during an outbreak that erupted Sunday.
The camp informed parents Tuesday night that it would remain closed to all children until Aug. 22, due to the isolation of its staff.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) said it is in close contact with Muskoka Woods to address the outbreak.
On Monday, four campers and staff had all tested positive. Two other individuals had positive preliminary results by Tuesday evening.
Dr. Colin Lee, a local medical officer, stated that there are still some test results and that they are expanding testing to other close contacts.
The camp only confirmed that the number of cases for both staff and campers is in the single digit.
The camp’s president and CEO John McAuley addressed a letter to parents calling the incident “heartbreaking.”
“We know this news is devastating to you and your children. We are deeply upset by this announcement because of how disappointing this is for our guests,” he said.
He also said that they have been abiding by the protocols required by the Public Health since the SMDHU has declared an outbreak in their camp.
The camp announced that it would be closed for camping Week 6, which was scheduled to run from Aug. 8-14, and camping Week 7, which was scheduled to run from Aug. 15-21.
Sherrie Mae Guthrie was one of the hundreds of parents who returned to camp on Sunday night. After leaving her son at camp, she picked him up within four hours. Her daughter had also been registered for the camp later in August.
Guthrie hopes to be able to reserve spots later in the summer. However, she fears that the extended closure and isolation of the staff might make it less likely.
Did you know that Muskoka Woods camp in Ontario is a go-to spot for kids and teens? If you’re thinking of heading there, it’s smart to keep an eye out for any new safety measures they might put in place after recent events. Stay in the loop for a worry-free visit!