Public Health Update

With flu season approaching and COVID-19 cases on the rise in Toronto, it's more important than ever that we continue to follow public health advice and protocols. Below, you can find several important updates on the COVID-19 response in Toronto and Ontario more broadly.

Earlier this month, the Provincial government announced a pause on reopening in Ontario due to the sharp increase of case numbers in several public health regions, including Toronto. In addition, the Province has lowered the maximum number of people permitted to attend social gatherings and organized public events to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. It is important to note that these numbers are not accumulative – gatherings of 35 with a mix of indoor and outdoor participants are not permitted under Provincial rules.
 
Starting Friday, September 25, the Province is expanding testing to 60 pharmacies across Ontario. To find the closest pharmacy or assessment centre near you, please visit www.ontario.ca/covidtest.
 
In certain parts of the country, it appears that the second wave of the pandemic has already begun. As the public health situation continues to evolve locally, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow the advice of Toronto Public Health by:

  • Practicing physical distancing and keeping a two-metre (six feet) distance from others;

  • Wearing a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces;

  • Washing your hands regularly;

  • Staying home when ill;

  • Limiting non-essential trips out of your home; and

  • Minimizing contact with people who you do not live with as much as possible.

For further guidance on steps to protect yourself and others, please see the City's website here.

New Public Health Measures Implemented Across Ontario:
 
On September 25, the province announced new public health measures in response to the recent rise in COVID-19 cases.
 
In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government has amended the Rules for Areas in Stage 3 under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19 Act, 2020).
 
The amended order will come into effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, and includes:

  • Additional measures and restrictions for restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments (including nightclubs) by prohibiting the sale of alcohol after 11 p.m.;

  • Prohibiting the consumption of alcohol on the premises after 12:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. (including employees);

  • Requiring establishments to close by 12:00 a.m. and remain closed until 5:00 a.m. except for takeout or delivery;

  • Close all strip clubs across the province; and

  • Require businesses or organizations to comply with any advice, recommendations, and instructions issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health on screening for COVID-19.

COVID Alert App:

Toronto Public Health also encourages residents to download the Government of Canada's COVID Alert app, which can help to notify individuals who are exposed to COVID-19 in the community.

More information can be found online here.

Community SafetyJaye RobinsonCOVID-19