WELLINGTON COUNTY — On the same day the province announced certain COVID-19 hotspots would be reverting to stage two restrictions, local public health officials urged residents to buckle down during the pandemic’s second wave.
“In no uncertain terms, I am concerned by the continuing rise in cases and the risk they pose to our community,” stated Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH), in an Oct. 9 press release.
“Each one of us must make a change in our behaviours immediately to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“This is a critical inflection point for our region where our choices will determine the severity of the second wave of this virus.”
There were 14 new cases reported in the WDGPH region on Oct. 9, bringing the total active cases in the region to 46 – a 44% increase in just one day.
Local officials note “cases are present across all age groups, suggesting evidence of community transmission.”
For the Thanksgiving long weekend, officials are recommending residents limit indoor meals to single households and take the usual precautions – staying outdoors, distancing, wearing masks and washing hands – when with others.
“If cases continue to rise, we will not hesitate to pursue additional public health measures to protect our region from COVID-19.”
Provincial restrictions
Premier Doug Ford, joined by ministers and health officials, unveiled several new restrictions on Oct. 9, the same day Ontario set a new daily high with 939 new cases of COVID-19.
“The health experts presented the most recent health data which identified some alarming public health trends that require immediate attention and early action to keep people safe,” said Ford.
He added, “By taking action ahead of the long weekend, we will help contain the spread in these hotspots, protect the surrounding communities, shield our seniors and most vulnerable, and contain the second wave surge.”
Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, said the percentage of positive tests is rising, as are hospitalization rates, and outbreaks are now entering long-term care homes.
“We need to act quickly, and we need everyone to follow the public health guidelines if we are going to stop the spread and contain the second wave,” said Williams.
Effective Oct. 10, the following “modified stage two” restrictions are in effect for the Ottawa, Peel, and Toronto regions:
- social gatherings and organized public events limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors;
- indoor food and drink service prohibited in restaurants/bars;
- closing all gyms and fitness centres, casinos, bingo halls, indoor cinemas/theatres, spectator areas at racing venues, interactive exhibits at museums/galleries/zoos, personal care services where face coverings must be removed; and
- no games or scrimmages for team sports and training sessions.
In addition to the measures being implemented in Ottawa, Peel, and Toronto, Williams is also urging all Ontarians to:
- limit trips outside of home – and to other regions in the province – to essential purposes only;
- practise physical distancing of at least two metres with those outside your household;
- wear a face covering when physical distancing is a challenge and where it is mandatory to do so;
- wash your hands frequently and thoroughly;
- following gathering limits and rules; and
- download the new COVID Alert app on their smart phone.
Provincial officials announced they will make $300 million available to assist businesses that are “significantly affected” by the new restrictions.
