Grand River Transit operator tests positive for COVID-19, 17 new cases in region

A Grand River Transit operator has tested positive for COVID-19.

The region says the driver last worked on Oct. 4 and tested positive on Oct. 8. The individual is now self-isolating at home.

Grand River Transit says it had taken steps to ensure employees and customers are safe, including enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of vehicles, stations and surfaces that are touched frequently. As well, operators wear masks and barriers have been installed on buses to protect operators and passengers.

"GRT continues to do everything that is necessary to ensure a safe and healthy environment for our riders and employees," Peter Zinck, the region's director of transit services, said in a news release.

People riding transit must also wear a mask and are asked to maintain a physical distance between themselves and other passengers.

The region reported 17 new cases of COVID-19 Friday morning. There are three people in hospital and 116 active cases, the region reports.

The regional update comes after the province announcedthere are more than 900 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, prompting new restrictions forToronto, Ottawa, and Peel Region.