SUDBURY -- The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit reported three new COVID-19 cases Wednesday, bringing the total to 61 in the health unit's coverage area since the pandemic began.

The source of infection in two of the cases was close contact with a confirmed case. The source of the third is unknown. Two cases involve someone between ages 20-39, the third person is between 40-59. Two people live in the Nipissing district, the third in Parry Sound.

This month, there have been 14 new cases of COVID-19, with 10 in the last week alone. Many of these cases were due to community spread of the disease, prompting Dr. Jim Chirico, the medical officer of health for North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, to declare the area is in the second wave.

There are currently seven active cases of COVID-19 in the Nipissing and Parry Sound Districts after three new cases were confirmed and two were resolved Wednesday afternoon. 

"To get tested for COVID-19, call an assessment centre directly to book an appointment," said information on the health unit's website.

You can also take a self-assessment to help you decide if you need a test. COVID-19 testing is currently not available at a pharmacy in the Nipissing district.

To stay safe, the health unit recommends residents:

- Limit social interactions to household members only, both indoors and outdoors. If you live alone, you may consider having close contact with another household.

- Limit travel outside the home to attending school or work - if unable to work from home – and essential trips for groceries, medication, and medical appointments. 

- Limit exercise and recreation to outdoor spaces where physical distancing is possible.

- Avoid travel outside of our district, especially to areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, unless for emergencies or urgent medical appointments.