EOHU in Agreement with Tightening ofPublic Health Measures by the Province

The Ontario government announced on October 2^nd that it is tightening public health measures to curb the rising number of COVID-19 infections in the province.

As of October 3^rd, the province is making the use of face coverings mandatory in all public indoor settings in Ontario, including businesses, facilities and workplaces.

In addition, the government is pausing social circles and recommending that all Ontarians limit their close contacts to people living in their own household and maintain physical distancing measures with everyone else.

“I agree with the tightening of these public health measures,” says Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health at the Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU). “The cases we are seeing in our area are mostly a result of individuals not wearing masks and failing to maintain their distance at private social gatherings. I believe these reinforced measures will help put an end to this type of transmission.”

Targeted public health measures in Ottawa, Peel and Toronto

The province also announced the introduction of targeted public health measures in the regions of Ottawa, Peel and Toronto due to their higher than average rates of transmission.

The new measures, which take effect on October 3^rd, will restrict occupancy in bars, restaurants and other food and drink establishments, where a maximum of 100 patrons will now be allowed in the premises. Restrictions have also been tightened for gyms and other fitness settings, as well as banquet halls and other meeting and event facilities.

No further restrictions required in EOHU region

“While I applaud the government’s efforts to lower the number of cases in areas experiencing high rates of transmission, I don’t see the need at this point for targeted measures in our area,” states Dr. Roumeliotis. “However, we are closely monitoring the situation in Eastern Ontario and will take action if required.”

For more information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19, check out the EOHU’s website at www.EOHU.ca/coronavirus.