Ottawa adds 10 new COVID-19 cases, distributes one mask bylaw infraction charge

OTTAWA – Ottawa Public Health (OPH) reports only 10 new cases of COVID-19 today (Aug. 13) and also cleared three institutions from its outbreaks list.

OPH says COVID-19 outbreaks have been cleared at Billingswood Manor retirement home, as well as Carleton Lodge and St. Patrick’s long-term care homes.

There are currently five ongoing outbreaks at local institutions, three of which are at childcare centres or day camps.

OPH is reporting 10 new cases of COVID-19 in the city, bringing the total since the beginning of the pandemic to 2,679. Of those, 84.9 per cent (2,249) have been resolved.

Public health unit staff say they are aware of 140 active cases in the community. There are 12 people in hospital with COVID-19 in Ottawa, with one in intensive care.

There has not been a local death associated with the virus since July 27, leaving Ottawa’s overall death toll at 264.

After almost a month in place, the City of Ottawa says its only issued one charge under its temporary mandatory mask bylaw.

Since the bylaw was enacted July 15, officers have issued 143 verbal warnings across the city.

The charge was issued on July 20 to the Manara Café at 104-1183 Hunt Club Rd., for failing to post the required signage at every public entrance. The restaurant was hit with a fine of $490.

Bylaw officials say a court summons was also issued to the proprietor for permitting smoking in an enclosed public space.

Ottawa’s mandatory mask rule will expire at the next city council meeting on Aug. 26, but will be up for re-approval at that time.