Point Edward, ON – The provincial announcement indicates Lambton County will be transitioning from the current provincial shutdown and stay-at-home orders to the COVID-19 Response Framework on February 16, 2021 under the Restrict (Orange) Level which reflects intermediate measures.
Review of trends in public health indicators has informed these decisions based on improvements in COVID-19 transmission, health system capacity, public health system capacity, local context and conditions, and testing capacity.
More information is available from the Province about returning to the COVID-19 response framework.
“It is very important for our community to view these changes as a gradual transition with many restrictions and recommended actions still required,” said Dr. Ranade, Medical Officer of Health for the County of Lambton. “Be diligent and limit trips in the community to only essential needs, maintain close contacts with only those in your household, and in doing so you will allow services in the community to operate safely.”
Under the response framework there are different public health and workplace safety measures for businesses and organizations. The public is reminded to please be patient and kind as businesses implement new control measures. Requirements under the framework’s Restrict (Orange) Level includes:
- Screening of patrons – signs posted, actively screening every person who works at the business or organization before they enter the premises, and actively screening patrons entering indoor malls.
- All retailers and other sectors are required to have a COVID-19 workplace safety plan and post it.
- All requirements under Prevent (Green) and Protect (Yellow) Levels also apply including limits on gatherings and close contact (household only), as well as capacity limits and control measures specific to settings and sectors.
Individuals also have a role to play. Always stay home if you have symptoms, physically distance by staying two metres apart from people you don’t live with, wear a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces and avoid non-essential travel.
Ranade adds, “Following public health and workplace safety measures provides the basic direction to reduce transmission of COVID-19 in the community. Reducing COVID-19 cases improves capacity in our health and public health systems and supports the move forward with safer options to access necessary services in our community.”
Together we can beat the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more at LambtonPublicHealth.ca.
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Please contact:
LPH-media-inquiries@county-lambton.on.ca