On March 1, the government of Ontario lifted, as planned, most of the remaining pandemic-related public health measures that had been in place, including capacity limits in all indoor public settings and proof of vaccination requirements for all settings.
However, some measures remain.
Face masks must still be worn, with the same exemptions as before, in indoor areas of public places, businesses or organizations.
Businesses and facilities are still required to have a safety plan in place to describe how the requirements of the Reopening of Ontario Act will be implemented. Passive screening of individuals is also required by posting signs at all entrances to businesses and facilities that inform individuals on how to screen themselves for COVID-19.
The Grey Bruce Health Unit is continuing to advise businesses and facilities to encourage physical distancing where possible.
Public health is also conducting case and contact management for individuals in high-risk settings, such as long-term care.
Also on March 1, Grey-Bruce Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ian Arra rescinded the last remaining local Class Order, which had been issued on April 16, 2021. The Class Order contained requirements for self-isolation related to COVID-19. It also included a potential fine for non-compliance.
While this local, universal Class Order was lifted, the government of Ontario’s requirements for self-isolation remain in place.
Individuals must isolate if they have symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for the virus. The required isolation period is at least five days for those who have been fully vaccinated or are under 12 years of age or at least 10 days if the person is not fully vaccinated and over 12 years of age or is immunocompromised.
Individuals must also isolate if they live with someone who’s tested positive for COVID-19 and the individual has not tested positive for the virus in the past 90 days. Full details on self-isolation requirements and self-monitoring guidelines are available at this link.
The Grey Bruce Health Unit has posted a Frequently Asked Questions document to its website regarding the decision to lift the local self-isolation Class Order.
The Medical Officer of Health can still issue an order to isolate to individuals, if required.
