The Omicron variant is spreading rapidly across Ontario as well as locally, according to Durham Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle.
“As local case numbers continue to increase at a rapid rate, residents that test positive for Covid-19 may experience delays in being contacted by public health staff. While waiting to receive a call and instructions, all individuals that test positive for Covid-19 must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. Due to the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant, household contacts of positive cases also need to stay home and isolate, regardless of their vaccination status,” he said.
To limit transmission of the Omicron variant, there is an ongoing focus on vaccination including administration of third doses of Covid-19 vaccine. As of December 20, all residents 18 and older are eligible to receive a third dose of Covid-19 vaccine, 84 days following the second dose.
Evidence shows that third doses can substantially increase protection against the Omicron variant, said Dr. Kyle.
“I am pleased to share that since December 13, the Health Department has added over 37,000 appointments for third/booster doses. Health Department staff continues to work very hard to increase capacity to administer vaccines to more residents every day. New appointments become available daily, as resources are secured. Thank you to residents for doing their part and trying to book an appointment for their vaccine. Due to the rapid expansion of eligibility for third doses, appointments may not be available immediately. Thank you for your patience as we actively work to increase capacity,” he said.
If you are experiencing symptoms, please isolate from others while waiting to get tested and while waiting for your test results, Dr. Kyle added.
Effective December 19, social gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors and capacity limits are reduced to 50 per cent for several indoor settings including restaurants, bars, personal care services, retailers (including grocery stores and pharmacies), indoor recreational amenities, etc., Dr. Kyle said in a statement issued yesterday.
The province also announced restrictions regarding:
- The number of patrons allowed to be seated at a table in a restaurant or bar;
- The sale and consumption of alcohol as well as food and drink at large venues (e.g., sporting events, theatres and cinemas, casinos, etc.);
- Dancing at venues; and
- Operating hours for bars, restaurants, meeting and event spaces and strip clubs.
For more information on restrictions and permitted activities, please refer to O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Step 3 and at the Roadmap Exit Step. Local business owners/operators and residents can refer to updated guidance documents and advice about the latest public health measures at www.durham.ca/reopeningtoolkit.
“Thank you to residents for following public health measures and helping to limit the spread of Covid-19. I also would like to thank each Health Department staff member that continues to work tirelessly to protect the health and safety of Durham Region residents. Many staff members have adjusted their holiday plans to support increasing demands. Thank you to my staff for your ongoing commitment to respond to urgent health care needs, prevent illness spread and keep community members safe,” Dr. Kyle said.
Residents can refer to local data available on the Durham Region Covid-19 Data Tracker.