The rising number of Covid-19 cases [and deaths] in the region have been described as “very concerning” by Durham Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle.
“In Durham Region, we have seen a very concerning increasing trend in the number of new daily cases since December and we continue to respond to outbreaks that are affecting our most vulnerable residents in long-term care homes and retirement homes,” he said in his latestmessage to the community.
“I urge all residents to follow public health measures and requirements, only go out for essentials, stay home if you have any symptoms, and please protect yourselves and others when you must go out by wearing a face covering, practicing physical distancing and practicing frequent hand hygiene.”
Referring to the stay-at-home order, Dr. Kyle said it requires everyone to remain at home unless they are going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services, going outside for exercise or going to work where the work cannot be done remotely.
All businesses are required to ensure that all workers who can work remotely do work from home.
“These public health restrictions aim to limit mobility and reduce the number of contacts that people have with individuals outside their household. The provincial emergency provides authority to all provincial offences officers, including the Ontario Provincial Police, local police services, public health inspectors, bylaw officers, and provincial workplace inspectors to issue tickets to individuals, employees and corporations in retail settings and businesses who do not comply with an order,” pointed out Dr. Kyle.
“The enhanced measures also provide them with the authority to disperse crowds indoors and outdoors, and close premises,” he added.