Yet another relaxation of COVID-19 protocols and this one is all about family ties. Premier Doug Ford says Public Health Ontario has given the green light to multiple households having gatherings of up to ten people, with close contact permitted.
This is very different, and far more intimate, than the general public gathering protocol which now permits up to 10 people who are not family members to get together outdoors, but maintain a distance of two metres apart.
As Ontario begins STAGE 2 of re-opening from the initial COVID-19 closures, public health agencies are watching how the virus continues to behave. Some jurisdictions in the United States are reporting an increase in infection rates and new hospitalizations since their respective re-openings.
In Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Lynn Noseworthy says the public health unit is preparing for a second wave of COVID-19.
As more stores reopen this weekend and the number of people venturing out increases, public health officials are urging us to stick with best anti-viral practices. Dr. Noseworthy says even under relaxed guidelines, it’s still better to limit your outings and your exposure to others. If physical distancing isn’t possible, wear a mask.
In Brighton Friday, Mayor Brian Ostrander was a leading example of how to returning to the new normal, safely. Ostrander was among the first customers through the door at Beth’s Barber Shop on Lisgar Street. He was sporting a mask as advised by public health experts.
