A seventh wave has been tentatively declared by the province's panel of COVID-19 experts. 'We have likely entered a wave driven by the Omicron BA.5 subvarian
“We have likely entered a wave driven by the Omicron BA.5 subvariant,”Wastewater trends are beginning to show a steeper rise in viral signals, as pictured above.
“Current evidence does not suggest BA.5 is more severe or that it will lead to a rise in hospitalizations as large as previous waves,” tweeted the experts. “However, any surge comes at a time when hospitals are already dealing with staff shortages and record wait times. This impacts all of us.” While stopping short of suggesting any new mandates, the panel noted that wearing a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings “is a good way” to protect yourself.