Manitoba's deputy chief public health officer confirmed Friday that COVID-19 case investigations have linked variant cases of concern to cases associated with several schools in the province, including Winkler's Pine Ridge Elementary.

The remaining two schools identified are located in Winnipeg.

Dr. Jazz Atwal says letters have been sent to the three school communities to advise of possible exposures.

"Case investigations continue to determine any additional details about the initial cases, and where they may have contracted the variant of concern. The affected cohorts at the school and on bus routes, as well as close family contacts are isolating," explained Dr. Atwal.

He adds if parents or guardians have not been contacted by the school or a public health official then they have not been identified as a close contact. However, public health officials recommend monitoring children for symptoms of COVID-19 and send them for testing if they develop.

When a variant of concern is identified within a school exposure, Dr. Atwal explains public health implements more aggressive measures for contacts.

"These officials connect with the school and ensure all close contacts have been identified. In addition, the entire class or cohorts exposed to the case will move to remote learning for the duration of the quarantine period, and may be considered close contacts. Public health officials make recommendations on a case-by-case basis based on a school exposure."

If a close contact is linked to a variant of concern, and the close contact chooses not to be tested, Dr. Atwal says that close contact must self-isolate for fourteen days followed by an additional 10 days, for a total of 24 days. The rest of the close contact's household must also self-isolate for the entire 24 days.