Toronto Public Health recommends temporary dismissal of Donwood Park Public School due to variant of concern

Toronto Public Health (TPH) has recommended the temporary dismissal of staff and students at Donwood Park Public School as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak of six people with COVID-19 in the school, including four who have screened positive for a variant of concern (VOC). In four of the cases community exposure is likely.

The Toronto District School Board has notified the school community about the closure, which takes effect today. Dismissing the school is a precautionary measure to allow TPH to complete an investigation while protecting the school community and prevent further virus spread.

TPH has followed up with close contacts and has recommended testing of the whole school. TPH is also urging families to seek testing.

TPH reminds Torontonians that variants are spreading in the city and the province. VOCs are believed to be more transmissible. This increases the risk that the virus will spread between people. Faster and wider spread of the virus makes it more likely that more people will get sick, which can increase strain on the health care system. TPH is releasing this information in an effort to ensure the public remains vigilant in efforts to help stop the spread and as part of the TPH’s response to COVID-19.

As Toronto continues to experience increased cases of variants of concern, it is more important than ever to follow the steps of self-protection. Public health measures will work to prevent the spread of the variants, including:

• Limiting your contact to household members only, and staying at home as much as possible. Social gatherings and playdates outside of the school setting have led to the spread of COVID-19.
• Going out only for essential outings such as medical appointments, food shopping, school, essential work, or for physical exercise.
• Keeping at least two metres or six feet apart from others outside of your household.
• Wearing a mask.
• Cleaning your hands frequently, with soap and water for 15 seconds.
• Staying home if you are feeling unwell, or if you have been told to self-isolate.

The health and well-being of students, staff, and the community remains Toronto Public Health’s highest priority.

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