Temporary measures are being enacted by the province in long-term care homes.
Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, December 30th, access by general visitors will be paused with designated caregivers able to still visit and day absences for all residents for social purposes will be paused.
The province is also requiring all staff caring for a resident with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 to wear a fit-tested, seal-checked N95 respirator.
“We know these measures are difficult for residents and families, but we must stand strong to protect our most vulnerable, which includes residents of long-term care homes,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “I encourage everyone to get their booster shot as soon as possible so we can keep everyone safe with the added layer of protection that the vaccine provides.”
On December 14th Ontario tightened COVID-19 restrictions in the long-term care sector which included all general visitors needing to be fully vaccinated to enter.