The Medical Officer of Health for the Northwestern Health Unit believes the new COVID restrictions now in place are reasonable.
Dr. Kit Young Hoon says, “There is a general uncertainty with the information on Omicron and the extent to which it will impact hospitalization/ICU admissions and deaths. There for it is important to monitor the data in real time and therefore make decisions and pivot appropriately.”
She adds, “I think at this point this surge is significant based on the numbers that are coming up and some of the predications. It will have an impact on the health care system. I think we’re hoping that it will not overwhelm the health care system but we know that the health care system, especially in our area, has always struggled with having enough staff and being able to provide adequate services.”
Dr. Young Hoon says she is hopeful that this will be a short-term “Step 2” restriction.
She stresses she knows people are feeling exhausted and tired of these measures but encourages the public to get outside and gather with a small group to keep mentally and physically active.
Social gathering limits are capped at five people indoors and 10 people outdoors.
The updated restrictions are in place for at least 21 days.
New restrictions now in place include:
-Schools will shift to online learning until at least January 17.
-Social gathering limits capped at five people indoors and 10 people outdoors
-Organized public event capacity limited to five people indoors
-Requiring businesses and organizations to ensure employees work remotely unless the nature of their work requires them to be on-site
-Indoor dining closed, outdoors allowed with restrictions
-Gyms, indoor sport and recreation fitness facilities closed, outdoor facilities are permitted to operate but with the number of spectators not to exceed 50 per cent occupancy and other requirements
-Indoor meeting and event spaces closed with limited exceptions but permitting outdoor spaces to remain open with restrictions
-Casinos, bingo halls, concert venues, theatres and cinemas also closed.
-Personal care services permitted at 50 per cent capacity and other restrictions
-50 per cent capacity at retail stores
-Indoor wedding/funeral services reduced to 50 per cent capacity. Outdoor services are limited to the number of people that can maintain 2 metres of physical distance. Social gatherings associated with these services must adhere to the social gathering limits
-Public libraries limited to 50 per cent capacity.
-Hospitals will be pausing all non-emergency procedures and and non-urgent surgeries.
