Ontario easing further public health measures

Waterloo Region –The Ontario government is continuing to ease public health measures across the Province with a gradual and cautious approach. The next phase will see measures easing on February 17, 2022 at 12:01 am.

Hospital admissions and positivity rates continue to fall across the province and these trends are expected to continue, allowing the province to safely move timelines forward.

The second phase is scheduled to commence on February 17 and includes:

• Increasing social gathering limits to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
• Increasing organized public event limits to 50 people indoors with no outdoor limits
• Allowing 50 per cent of the usual seating capacity at sports arenas
• Allowing 50 per cent of the usual seating capacity for concert venues and theatres
• Increasing capacity limits for indoor weddings, funerals, or religious services, rites or ceremonies to the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance.
• Removing capacity limits in the following public settings where proof of vaccination is required, including:

• Restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments without dance facilities;
• Non-spectator areas of sports and recreational fitness facilities, including gyms
• Cinemas
• Meetings and event spaces, including conference centres or convention centres
• Casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments

Individual municipalities will provide updates on service changes, please check their websites for more details.

“Our collective efforts are making an important difference and will serve us well as restrictions continue to loosen, said Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang. “A cautious approach is still warranted, including completing your vaccine series and getting a booster, but it’s very encouraging to see health system indicators continuing to improve.”

Information for residents:

Residents can book a vaccine at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/GetAVaccine

For settings that require proof of vaccination, residents can download an enhanced vaccine certificate with official QR code. Residents can use a printed or digital copy and valid personal ID is required to confirm identity.

Residents are reminded to be mindful of feelings of isolation. If you or someone you know needs help, remember that local mental health support is available.

Local, professional mental health support is available from Here 24/7 at 1-844-437-3247.

For more information on today’s announcement, visit the Province of Ontario website.