The Ford government is expected to announce a province-wide stay-at-home order today.
Various media reports say non-essential retail outlets will be restricted to curbside pickup only, and big-box stores will be restricted to essential aisles only.
It’s not known how long the order will in place.
It stems from calls this week from the Ontario Medical Association, the Ontario Hospital Association and Medical Officers of Health in Toronto, Ottawa and Peel Region for a province-wide stay-at-home order to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The Northwestern Health Unit’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kit Young Hoon, says she doesn’t know if we need such an order in our area.
“We are recommending that people only interact with their own household. Outdoor gathering limits are limited to five people, and we’re recommending that people avoid activities where they interact with others. Which is somewhat similar to a stay-at-home order,” says Dr. Young Hoon.
Dr. Young Hoon notes we are in a situation where we are seeing variants of concern, and that can change rapidly. She says we can do our part by following the rules and recommendations under the lockdown.
The Medical Officer of Health says that should allow us to control the situation here at home.
Premier Doug Ford once again says everything is on the table.
“This variant is moving hour-by-hour, day-by-day. So we have to move with it and be nimble and be quick.”
“This variant is taking off. Please, when you can, follow all protocols. Make sure, when you can, stay at home. We understand you got to get out, get fresh air, god bless you, but do it responsibly,” says Ford. “What’s essential is going to buy food. Going to buy medicine out of the pharmacies and getting your vaccines.”
He does admit the province needs to focus on where the problem is the most, citing York, Peel and Toronto as the main hotspots.
