At least five recent COVID-19 cases linked to party in University District

Today, Dr. Kieran Moore, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health confirmed that at least five recent COVID-19 positive cases have been linked to a recent large party in the University District.

The party, which took place at a residence in the 500 block of Johnson Street, took place on Sept. 18. “All individuals who attended this house party are required to self-isolate and to get tested. Once tested, individuals should continue to self-isolate until they receive a negative test result. If after this time, an individual develops symptoms they are required to self-isolate again and to get re-tested,” said KFL&A Public Health in a press release.

“The well-being of these individuals is our top priority along with ensuring adherence to unmonitored private social gathering regulations,” said Dr. Kieran Moore.  “The rationale for the public notification is that we have found evidence of propagation, but we have been unable to identify all attendees through case investigation.” 

Queen’s University has been struggling to prevent large gatherings of students amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Two-thirds of new COVID-19 cases in the KFL&A region in the month of September were associated with Queen’s University. Queen’s University disclosed one new case of COVID-19 on Oct. 1, 2020, via its case tracking website.

The COVID-19 assessment centre at the Beechgrove Complex at 51 Heakes Lane, Kingston is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Queen’s University students may access the assessment centre located adjacent to Student Wellness Services in Mitchell Hall from Monday to Friday, 5 to 8 p.m., and by appointment only.

To protect the health of the public and prevent community spread, KFL&A Public Health is investigating and following up with close contacts.