SUDBURY -- In a news release Thursday, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit said it is in consultation with other northern health units in regard to mandating face coverings across the province.

The health unit "acknowledges the concerns of the community and takes the COVID-19 precautions seriously," the health unit said.

“The hard work of everyone within our district has helped to reduce the spread of COVID-19, which is evident in our case numbers,” said Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health. "However, we cannot be complacent with the precautions we take, as COVID-19 is still in our communities. We recommend the use of face coverings when physical distancing is a challenge.

"We also remind the public to continue to physical distance with individuals outside your household or social circle and to wash or sanitize hands often."

A face covering does not replace physical distancing and other protective health measures such as hand washing and isolating yourself when you have symptoms or have come in close contact with someone with COVID-19 or suspected to have COVID-19.

"Currently, there is no specific treatment for COVID-19," the health unit said. "It is important to remember that most people with COVID-19 have no symptoms or mild symptoms. People who are mildly ill should isolate and care for themselves at home. Most will recover in one to two weeks by simply treating the symptoms."

For more information on COVID-19, click here.