CPAC Screenshot. Dr. Brent Roussin
The province of Manitoba is opening up a bit more.
Chief Provincial Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin introduced new health orders Wednesday afternoon.
Bars and restaurants can open to 50% capacity and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers can have a full crowd if everyone in attendance is fully vaccinated.
The reopening comes two weeks ahead of schedule and comes into effect Saturday.
The second vaccination milestone of at least 75% first dose and 50% second dose for those age 12 and older was reached nearly a month ahead of schedule on July 6.
The revamped health orders include:
-Indoor gatherings at private residences with a maximum of five people, plus household members;
-Indoor gatherings at public spaces with a maximum of 25 people;
-Outdoor gatherings on private properties will see the limit increase to 25 people;
-Public outdoor gatherings will be increased to 150 people;
-Retail businesses can have 50 per cent capacity or 500 people;
-Restaurants can now have their capacity at 50 per cent. The number of people at outdoor tables will remain at eight, while indoor dining must be people from the same household or those who are all fully vaccinated. Restaurant hours can also extend to midnight and people will not be required to buy food while drinking alcohol. VLTs can also be operated with proper spacing;
-Appointments are no longer needed for personal services such as hairstylists;
-Capacity at dance, theatre and music school is now at 50 per cent with a maximum of 25 people per group;
-Day camps can now have groups of 25;
-Outdoor recreation such as games and practices can happen with a group of 50 people and spectators don’t count toward capacity;
-Gyms and fitness centres can have 50 per cent capacity. Masks and physical distancing are still required;
-Outdoor weddings and funerals can have capacity limits of 150 people, while indoor events can have 25 people;
-Libraries can open at 50 per cent capacity with a maximum of 150 people;
-Faith-based gatherings can happen at 50 per cent capacity or 150 people indoors, but masks and physical distancing are needed between households;
-Fully immunized Manitobans can now attend movie theatres, bingo halls, VLT lounges and casinos, museums and galleries; and -Outdoor professional sports events can operate at 100 per cent capacity after an approved event plan in consultation with public health.
The new COVID rules are in effect until August 7.
