Halloween is a popular celebration, but due to COVID-19, play it safe. Many traditional Halloween activities can be high-risk for spreading illness, so continuing with them in the middle of COVID-19 is not recommended. The key is to find a balance between keeping safe while trying to maintain some sense of normalcy.
This Halloween, consider safer alternatives that can be done close to home. You and your family can still celebrate the season in ‘spooktacular’ fashion – along with peace of mind.
The Health Unit recommends rethinking the usual door-to-door trick-or-treating this year due to COVID-19 concerns. Instead, find creative ways to celebrate the season at home.
If you want to hand out candy to hearty trick-or-treaters, plan for success. Ideally, do so outside being sure to wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Consider setting up a table or chair at the end of your walk or driveway to make handing out candy easier. Do NOT leave treats in bucket or bowl for kids to grab–and-go in order to avoid kids crowding around the treats.
Wear a face covering and use tongs or similar tools (even the end of a hockey stick) to safely hand out candy (or individually-wrapped goodie bags) while ensuring you maintain a 2-metre (6 foot) distance from trick-or-treaters.
Drop treats on your neighbour’s doorsteps, ring the bell, and run away! Make sure to include a spooky note letting your neighbour know they’re from you.
If your children are going out trick-or-treating, be sure everyone takes COVID-19 precautions:
Do NOT allow your children to go out if they are ill. Parents should also stay home if they are sick.
Only go out trick-or-treating with members of your direct household.
Only go trick-or-treating outdoors.
Maintain a physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others at all times while trick-or-treating. Do not congregate or linger at doorsteps. Line up 2 metres (6-feet) apart if waiting. Avoid high-touch surfaces and objects.
Ensure your child wears a proper face covering while trick-or-treating. Choose a costume that makes wearing a mask or face covering easy for your child. Ensure the mask fits well and covers the nose, mouth and chin. Consider building the face covering into your child’s costume (cloth face masks can be made out of different fabrics to allow them to be part of a costume) .NOTE: A costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering. Do not put a costume mask over a face covering as this makes breathing difficult.
Wash hands with soap and water before trick-or-treating, when you return home and before snacking.
Bring alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you to use while trick-or-treating.
Leave any treats you collect for at least 24 hours. Have some ready-to-enjoy favourites set aside for children to enjoy when they return from trick-or-treating.
Halloween at Home
Consider these safer
alternatives to do at home:
Buy treats for your children and enjoy them at home while watching a scary movie together.
Decorate for Halloween inside and outside your home and have children carve pumpkins to add to the festive display.
Showcase Halloween craft projects on your porch and in your front windows for your neighbours to enjoy.
Craft a countdown calendar – pick a fun Halloween activity to do each day or each weekend in October leading up to the big day.
Plan your own monster mash or ‘Halloween-at-home’ party. Get children to dress up in costume to mark the festivities.
Make your own spooky treats such as: clementine jack-o-lanterns, monster mix, or ghostly cookies.
Organize a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given holiday-themed items to look for around your home or property. You can also hide treats in different spots and get children to find them.
Do an ‘at-home’ version of trick-or-treating by setting up treat stations around your home that children can visit for goodies.
Pick out some Halloween themed books to read together.
Set up a piñata at home filled with your favourite Halloween treats.
Organize and hold a socially distanced costume parade with a few of your neighbours and keep the treats at home to enjoy afterwards.
Host a virtual party – set up video chats with friends and family members who can’t celebrate with you. Encourage children to show off their costumes and talk about their favourite treats.
Take photos of children dressed in Halloween costume and email/share with grandparents and older relatives who can’t be there in person.
Social Gatherings
Avoid attending Halloween parties or social gatherings — especially those indoors. While Ontario does allow small indoor gatherings of 10 or fewer people and large outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people, being in a social setting with others increases your risk of COVID-19. With cases on the rise in Ontario, it’s best not to take any chances.
Do not attend costume parties at other people’s homes. Instead, organize your own at home.
Avoid indoor haunted houses where people may be crowded together and screaming, increasing your risk of COVID-19.
If you do decide to attend a social gathering, follow COVID-19 precautions. Stay home if sick. Keep a 2 metre (6 foot) physical from others. Wear a mask or face covering. Wash your hands with soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.
Wearing face coverings is another important way to reduce the risk of COVID-19. That’s why it’s important to know when and how to properly wear a mask.
Please Note: The Health Unit is directing that non-medical masks or face coverings MUST be used within indoor public spaces in City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County and Haliburton County. For complete details, click here.
Additional Note: As of now, the Ontario government is also mandating the use of face coverings in all public indoor settings across the province, such as businesses, facilities and workplaces, with limited exemptions, including corrections and developmental services.
Medical masks(like surgical and N-95):
close up White protective hygenic mask isolated backgrounds for doctors and patient from virus biological infection and PM2.5 dust, pandemic news
These must be kept for health care providers and for those providing direct care for someone with COVID-19.
If you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and need to seek medical care, wear a mask. Your health provider may also recommend you wear a mask while you’re seeking or waiting for care. The mask acts as a barrier and helps stop the tiny droplets from spreading around you when you cough or sneeze.
Masks MUST be put on, taken off and thrown out properly. If you need to wear a mask, be sure to clean your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. When wearing a mask, follow this Public Health Ontario fact sheet on how to properly wear and throw away one.
Homemade (Cloth) Masks:
The Health Unit is directing that cloth masks/face coverings be used inside public places in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes. For specific details, including exemptions, click here. The Ontario government is now also mandating that masks have to be worn in most public places across the province.
When worn properly, non-medical masks can help to cover your mouth and nose to prevent your respiratory droplets from contaminating other people or landing on common surfaces. The Public Health Agency of Canada advises that putting on a homemade mask can help protect others around you if you’re ill with COVID-19 and do not yet know it.
Wearing a face mask in public places, together with washing your hands with soap and water, staying home and maintaining physical distancing, are all important to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Homemade masks or facial coverings should not be worn/put on by:
Children under age 2 years, or a child under the age of five years either chronologically or developmentally
A person who is unable to remove a mask without assistance
Anyone who cannot safely wear a non-medical mask or face covering due to medical reasons such as, but not limited to, respiratory disease, cognitive difficulties or difficulties in hearing or processing information
Someone who cannot wear a non-medical mask or face covering for any religious reason.
How to Properly Use a Homemade Mask/Face Covering:
Wash your hands immediately before putting it on and immediately after taking it off (use good hand hygiene while wearing it too)
Masks should fit snugly, but comfortably against your face (non-gaping) allowing you to breathe without restriction. Masks should be secured with ties or ear loops and have multiple fabric layers
Do not share cloth masks with others
Remember not to touch or rub your eyes while wearing it
Avoid moving, adjusting or touching your mask while using it, as it could become contaminated on the outside.
Change face coverings if they get slightly wet or dirty
Wash the cloth mask after each use as it can get damp or dirty:
Put it directly into the washing machine or a bag that can be emptied into the washing machine and then disposed of
Cloth masks can be laundered with other items using a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly.
Wash your hands with soap and water after putting the mask into the laundry.
Homemade masks that cannot be washed should be thrown out in a properly lined garbage bin as soon as they get damp, dirty or crumpled. Do not throw used masks on the ground or in a shopping cart. Immediately after wash your hands with soap and water.
NOTE: The Ontario government is now limiting the size of private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). Please ensure you follow this new requirement. Failure to do so could lead to fines for the event host and people attending the function.
FURTHER NOTE:Social circles (or bubbles) are now on pause in Ontario. People are encouraged to only have close contact with others in their immediate household. Maintain 2 metres (6 feet) physical distancing from everyone else. Individuals who live alone may consider having close contact with another household.
If you own or manage a multi-unit building, it’s important to protect your tenants from COVID-19. Proper screening, cleaning, physical distancing and other measures are essential to reduce the spread of illness. Here’s what you need to do:
Screening
Put in place screening measures to identify and prevent visitors with COVID-19 symptoms from entering the building. Put up clearly-worded posters at all entrances and common spaces.
Reduce unnecessary visits as much as possible.
Get everyone to stay home if sick! Discourage visitors who are ill from entering the building. Cleaning/maintenance staff who are sick should also stay away. Residents/tenants who are sick or travelled must self-isolate in their unit.
Provide tissues, hand sanitizing station and disinfecting wipes in common areas like the elevator, laundry room and entrances
Display posters that encourage handwashing and other respiratory etiquette.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Increase cleaning and disinfecting, especially in common areas. High-touch surfaces (like doorknobs, light switches, phones, elevator buttons, stairwells, shared washrooms and garbage facilities) should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice per day, and when visibly dirty.
Be careful when handling waste, and ensure you wash hands thoroughly afterwards with soap and running water. Line garbage cans with plastic bags if possible and avoid direct contact with soiled items in the garbage
For Shared Laundry Rooms: Both sick and healthy households need to use laundry rooms to wash dirty laundry. Clean and disinfect the machine controls frequently. You may also need to put up limits to the number of people in the laundry room at a time, to ensure physical distancing. Put up this poster for tips on using shared laundry facilities.
Mask Use
The Ontario government is now mandating that face coverings/non-medical masks MUST be worn in common areas, hallways, lobbies, etc. when you cannot keep 2 metres (6 feet) apart from others.
Physical Distancing
Promote physical distancing in your building. Urge people to keep 2 metres (6 feet) apart – roughly the length of a hockey stick. Put up this poster in all common areas to send a clear message.
Put in place measures at your building to reinforce physical distancing. Stagger times to use laundry facilities, limit the number of people gathering in shared spaces, and move furnishings like chairs further apart to create more space.
Limit capacity on elevators to ensure physical distancing. Post a sign indicating no more than two or three people should use the elevator at once.
What to do If Tenants/Residents Show COVID-19
Symptoms
Individuals in a private unit who show COVID-19 symptoms MUST self-isolate for 14 days and not leave home, unless they need medical care. If possible, check in with them by phone, email or text. Offer to get food/supplies and leave items at their doorway, ensuring no close contact.
If someone with COVID-19 symptoms lives in a shared space, support them to safely self-isolate for 14 days by ensuring they stay in a separate room, use a separate washroom (if possible) and keep a 2 metre distance from others. If this isn’t possible, review this link
If someone experiences severe COVID-19 symptoms, seek immediate medical care.
Be a good neighbour. Check in on people who may need assistance with getting groceries if they are self isolating. This reduces the need for them to leave their apartment.
IMPORTANT NOTE: As of now, the Ontario government is also mandating the use of face coverings in all public indoor settings across the province, such as businesses, facilities and workplaces, with limited exemptions, including corrections and developmental services.
For more details, please read the the following FAQs, as well as posters, policy and resources to assist you with compliance.
Please Note: This order applies to non-medical masks and face coverings. Medical masks are different and must only be used by health care workers.
Who is Affected?
If you own, operate or are responsible for a business or facility that is indoors and open to the public and currently operating under Stage 3 of the provincial Framework for reopening, you must have policies in place to inform people about the need to wear a mask or face covering before entering your establishment. Certain exemptions do apply on the use of masks in these indoor settings.
The Health Unit’s updated instructions apply to any places of business or facilities that are indoors and open to the public and used for the purposes of offering goods or services for sale or use. These establishments include: a mall or other structure containing commercial premises, and currently include the following:
Retail stores, convenience stores, malls/plazas, restaurants, personal service settings, grocery stores and bakeries, gas stations, indoor farmers’ markets, areas of mechanics’ shops/garages/repair shops, which are open to the public
Other indoor public places are also covered by this order, including:
Churches/places of worship, public libraries, real estate open houses, personal care services (relating to the hair or body), food courts, fitting rooms, driving instruction services, sports and recreation facilities (like gyms, yoga/dance studios, and fitness facilities), children’s camps, movie theatres, performing arts centres, casinos/bingo halls/gaming establishments, and racing venues, cultural centres (museums, art galleries, etc.).
Are there places where masks/face coverings do not need to be worn?
In addition to the Health Unit’s mask instruction, the Ontario government is now also mandating face coverings be worn across the province, This includes:
Public spaces (for example, inside stores, event spaces, entertainment facilities and common areas in hotels).
Workplaces, even those that are not open to the public.
Vehicles that operate as part of a business or organization, including taxis and rideshares.
According to the Province, establishments in which face coverings are not required are correctional facilities, university dorms, retirement homes, long-term care homes or other similar dwellings (except when you are in common areas and can’t maintain 2 metres from others), and residences for people with developmental disabilities.
Are churches/places of worship covered under these updated instructions?
Yes, churches or places of worship are now included in the updated instructions for requiring mask use. Attendees to religious services/rites or ceremonies must wear masks at all times, with a secured physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others. For additional directions on mask use and COVID-19 prevention measures in places of worship, click here.
Why is this instruction on masks being updated (on July 17) so soon after it took effect (on July 13)?
With the move to Stage 3 on July 17, more businesses and services are reopening in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes. The Health Unit’s revised instructions are meant to provide additional clarity and direction for mask use in these newly-opened establishments.
Wearing non-medical masks or face coverings inside public places is another way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in this area. As we move into Stage 3 reopening and more businesses and public spaces open and people increase their contacts, the risk of a rapid rise in infections and outbreaks is ever-present. Although the number of cases of COVID-19 in the Health Unit area is declining, the risk of ongoing spread remains as the reopening process continues.
Increasing scientific evidence supports wearing a mask when in enclosed public spaces as an important measure in reducing COVID-19 transmission, while the risk of rising rates of infection continues. Together with physical distancing, hand and cough hygiene, and staying home when ill, the use of a non-medical mask or face covering in a commercial establishment is an additional public health measure that may help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.
What areas of a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public are subject to the non-medical mask and face covering requirements?
Any areas in which customers interact with one another or with staff members
OR
Any areas that are open or accessible to members of the public
Except where: The area is outside, whether or not the area is covered (e.g. a restaurant patio)
Are there times when you do not have to wear a face covering?
In addition to the Health Unit’s mask order, the Ontario government is now also mandating the use of face coverings across the province. Below are the only situations when you do not need to wear a face covering:
Children do not have to wear a face covering indoors if they are younger than two years old.
If you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to wear a face covering, are unable to put on or remove a face covering without someone else’s help, and are receiving accommodations according to the Human Rights Code or the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005).
In correctional facilities or youth detention centres.
In workplaces when working in an indoor area that allows you to maintain a distance of at least 2 metres (6 feet) from anyone else.
In university dorms, retirement homes, long-term care homes or other similar dwellings except when you are in a common area and can’t maintain 2 metres (6 feet) from others.
If you are performing or rehearsing for a film/television production, concert, artistic event or theatrical performance.
You can also temporarily take off your face covering to:
Receive services that require you to take it off (e.g. at the dentist, getting a facial)
Take part in an athletic or fitness activity
To eat or drink
As necessary for health and safety purposes.
What happens if patrons don’t wear a mask?
People who are responsible for a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public and currently operating during Stage 3 should have a policy to ensure public is informed of the requirement to wear a mask or face covering that covers their nose, mouth and chin when entering or remaining in an indoor public space.
People in an enclosed public space who remove their mask for extended periods of time, will receive a verbal reminder of the requirement to wear a mask under these instructions.
Who is exempt from this instruction?
The following people are exempt from the instruction to wear a mask while inside a commercial establishment. Please note: a person refers to any customer, patron, employee, or visitor who enters the premises:
The Person is a child under the age of two years; or a child under the age of 5 years either chronologically or developmentally and he or she refuses to wear a face covering and cannot be persuaded to do so by their caregiver
The Person is unable to remove their mask without assistance
For any other medical reason, the Person cannot safely wear a non-medical mask or face covering such as, but not limited to, respiratory disease, cognitive difficulties or difficulties in hearing or processing information
For any religious reason, the Person cannot wear a non-medical mask or face covering or cannot cover the face in a manner that would properly control the source.
Do I have to disclose my medical condition if I don’t wear a mask?
No one is required to disclose a medical condition or reason why they are exempt from wearing a mask. All a person has to say is that: “I am not able to wear a mask.”
People who are responsible for a place of business/facility that is indoors and open to the public should respect this answer. For privacy reasons, owners/operators are not allowed to ask specifics on why someone cannot wear a mask. All that owners/operators are required to do is make patrons and members of the public aware of the mask use requirement.
It is recognized there are a variety of reasons why a person cannot wear a mask and people are asked to continue to be kind to each other and support everyone in the community as we work together to stop the spread of the virus.
The requirement to have people wear masks within a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public is not meant to stigmatize people who are unable to wear a mask due to medical reasons or their age.
No one should be denied service if they cannot wear a mask.
Why can’t mask use be a voluntary decision?
Although there has been information and messaging shared on the public health benefits of wearing a mask when physical distancing is a challenge, many people will still not wear a mask. Many of the people who are now testing positive for COVID-19 are asymptomatic and do not realize they are ill. If they do not wear a mask in public, they can easily spread the virus to other, more vulnerable people within the community.
These instructions to wear a mask within a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public are meant to serve as a reminder to everyone who can wear a mask, that they should be doing so to help protect others.
Where can I find a mask if I can’t afford to buy one?
We are working with our community partners to connect people in need with masks. People can call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020, to learn more about accessing a mask. Another option is to use what you have at home – if someone cannot afford a non-medical mask, they are requested to use a bandana or scarf as a face covering.
Are places of business or facilities that are indoors and open to the public required to purchase masks or have them on hand for customers?
No, under the instructions issued by the Health Unit, places of business or facilities that are indoors and open to the public are not required to provide non-medical masks or face coverings to customers. If a customer does not have a non-medical mask, they can wear other face coverings, including a bandana or scarf.
How is this being enforced?
Every owner/operator of a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public will have a policy requiring members of the public wear a mask or face covering when entering public areas of the enclosed public space.
Employees and operators will provide a verbal reminder to any customer entering the premises without a mask that the customer should be wearing a mask as a result of this directive.
Implementation of the policy will be enacted and enforced in ‘good faith’ and will be primarily used as a means to educate people on mask use in public spaces.
No one should be denied service if they cannot wear a mask.
Public Health Inspectors from the HKPR District Health Unit, as well as municipal bylaw and local police officers will be involved in providing additional education and enforcement to operators of commercial establishments.
What are the fines?
As per the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, those who do not comply with the above noted requirements may be liable for a fine of $750 – $1,000 for an individual owner/operator of a commercial establishment, to a maximum of $100,000 or in the case of a corporation, not more than $10,000,000 for each day or part of each day on which the offence occurs or continues.
Are both businesses and customers subject to fines?
As noted above, implementation of the policy will be enacted and enforced in ‘good faith’ and will be primarily used as a means to educate people on mask use in public spaces.
As per the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, those businesses that do not comply with the instructions may be liable for a fine of $750 to $1,000 for an individual, to a maximum of $100,000, or in the case of a corporation, not more than $10,000,000 for each day or part of each day on which the offence occurs or continues.
What would be the best way for store owners to address the issue if patrons don’t have or refuse to wear a mask for both reasons that are legitimate and those that are not?
People who are responsible for a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public are asked to use their “best effort” to ensure patrons and members of the public wear a mask while in the commercial premise. This means offering a verbal reminder to the patron that mask use is required within the establishment or a verbal reminder about mask use if the person removes the mask while in the premise.
No one should be denied service if they cannot wear a mask.
For privacy reasons, if you are someone who is responsible for a place of business or facility that is indoors and open to the public, you cannot ask patrons the reasons they cannot wear a mask. All you are required to do is make patrons and members of the public aware of the mask use requirement.
Do people need to wear masks when on a restaurant patio? Do the servers need to wear masks?
No, customers do not need to wear a mask while on a restaurant patio as this is outside and is an exception to the instructions issued by the Health Unit. Servers who are interacting with the customers in the commercial establishment are required to wear face masks.
Do people need to wear a mask while at a hotel or bed and breakfast?
Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts offer services and would be considered commercial. This would be limited to areas that the hotels/B&Bs interact with the public, like the reception area, but not in private rooms or during outdoor dining. Masks are also not required when swimming in an indoor or outdoor public pool or using a public spa.
Is it mandatory that employees working in retail stores are required to wear masks?
Yes, while in areas that are servicing the public.
Are staff and customers still required to wear a mask if there is a plexiglass barrier between them?
Yes, a barrier is not sufficient to stop the droplet transmission of the virus. When both parties are wearing a mask, it protects both the staff and the customer from the potential spread of the virus.
Can I remove my mask or face covering if physical distancing is not a concern in the establishment or enclosed public space I am visiting?
Members of the public are permitted to temporarily remove a mask for the following reasons:
Receiving services (including eating or drinking when dine-in services are allowed),
OR
While actively engaging in an athletic or fitness activity including water-based activities.
Ensure you wash your hands using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after removing your mask or face covering.
What should store owners and staff do if a customer does not/cannot wear a mask?
Owners/operators and staff of commercial establishments are asked to use their “best effort” to ensure patrons and members of the public wear a mask while in the commercial premise. This means offering a verbal reminder to the patron that mask use is required within the establishment or a verbal reminder about mask use if the person removes the mask while in the premise.
No one should be denied service if they cannot wear a mask.
I work in a hot commercial kitchen/warehouse. Do I need to wear a mask?
If you work in a commercial establishment, a mask should be worn when interacting with the members of the public inside. You are not required to wear a mask if you do not interact or serve members of the public, but it is still recommended that you wear a mask if you cannot maintain a physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from a co-worker.
Who do I call if I want to report a business not requiring customers to wear a mask?
To report a non-complying business, or for more information on the Health Unit’s instructions to places of business or facilities that are indoors and open to the public to require the use of masks by patrons, call the Health Unit toll-free at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020.
Can a person be refused service for not wearing a non-medical mask or face covering?
The implementation of the policy should be enforced in “good faith” and any person not wearing a mask will receive a verbal reminder from the staff of the establishment.
No one should be denied service if they cannot wear a mask.
Where is the science/proof that masks work?
COVID-19 is a new virus and we are continuing to learn more about the virus, how it affects people and how it is spread. Evidence is showing that wearing a mask, together with staying home when sick, physical distancing, washing hands thoroughly and frequently, and covering coughs and sneezes is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus.
Why was this not done in March when the pandemic started? Why now?
Although we have seen a decline in the number of COVID-19 cases in our area, we want to be sure we continue to see a decrease as we move towards the reopening of more businesses within the province. This is even more true as we enter Stage 3 of Ontario’s reopening plan.
The risk for the ongoing spread of the virus remains as the process of reopening continues throughout the province. The use of non-medical masks or face coverings in public places, along with continued handwashing, physical distancing and staying home if sick, are some of the best public health measures to protect us from the virus.
How do I choose a non-medical mask or face covering?
In choosing a non-medical mask, ensure it is:
Made of 2+ layers of tightly woven fabric (such as cotton or linen)
Well-fitted with ear loops or ties
A comfortable fit against your face and allows you to breathe easily without having to adjust it
Large enough to completely cover the nose and mouth without gaping
Durable to allow you to frequently wash and dry it without losing its shape
A face shield is not a substitute for wearing a face mask as it does not filter respiratory droplets. A face shield may provide additional protection for the wearer against droplets expelled from another person, however these droplets may still be inhaled around the shield. Respiratory droplets expelled by the wearer may escape around the sides of the face shield, which therefore provides less protection to others. If you choose to wear a face shield, we recommend – if possible – to wear it in addition to a properly fitted cloth masks.
If I can’t wear a mask, can I wear a face shield?
A face shield would not be considered an equal substitute for a face mask as it does not provide filtering capacity. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) supports the use of face shields as a “better than nothing” alternative to face masks if there is a shortage of non-medical masks or for populations who are not able to properly wear non-medical masks, such as individuals with a respiratory condition that prevents them from wearing a mask. The WHO makes note that face shields are inferior to face masks at preventing the spread of an infection through droplets and at a minimum should extend below the chin and cover the sides of the face.
How to Properly Use a Non-Medical Mask or Face Covering
Wash your hands immediately before putting it on and immediately after taking it off (use good hand hygiene while wearing it too)
Masks should fit snugly, but comfortably against your face (non-gaping) allowing you to breathe without restriction. Masks should be secured with ties or ear loops and have multiple fabric layers
Do not share cloth masks with others
Remember not to touch or rub your eyes while wearing it
Avoid moving, adjusting or touching your mask while using it, as it could become contaminated on the outside.
Change face coverings if they get slightly wet or dirty
Wash the cloth mask after each use as it can get damp or dirty:
Put it directly into the washing machine or a bag that can be emptied into the washing machine and then disposed of
Cloth masks can be laundered with other items using a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly.
Wash your hands with soap and water after putting the mask into the laundry.
Homemade masks that cannot be washed should be thrown out in a properly lined garbage bin as soon as they get damp, dirty or crumpled. Do not throw used masks on the ground or in a shopping cart. Immediately after wash your hands with soap and water.
Access local COVID-19 data, and information to reduce your risk of COVID-19.
Scroll down this page for resources and links on how to stay safe and protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If you need further help or guidance, call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020, or email info@hkpr.on.ca.
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). A novel coronavirus is a new strain not seen before in humans. The new novel coronavirus is known as COVID-19.
The novel coronavirus was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. On January 7, 2020, China confirmed COVID-19. The first presumptive case of this infection in Ontario was identified on January 25, 2020.
Click here for the latest COVID-19 data in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes. Visit the Ministry of Health website for updates on the number of coronavirus cases in Ontario.
Please note: To protect privacy, the Health Unit is only reporting the county in which a person confirmed to have COVID-19 lives. Health Unit staff do case and contact management, and will contact others who may have been in close contact to a case. Given that COVID-19 is spreading in all local communities, it’s important for everyone to do their part to slow the spread of illness. For more on why the Health Unit reports local COVID-19 data as it does, click here.
Symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold, flu or other conditions.
Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
Fever (temperature of 37.8 C or higher)
New or worsening cough
Shortness of breath
Other symptoms of COVID-19 can include:
Sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Smell/tasting disorder
Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Runny nose or nasal congestion
In certain cases, complications from COVID-19 can include serious conditions like pneumonia or kidney failure, and sometimes death.
Less common symptoms of COVID-19, especially in children, older persons and people living with a developmental disability, can include: unexplained fatigue or malaise, delirium (altered mental status and inattention), falls, acute functional decline, worsening of chronic conditions, chills, headaches, croup, pinkeye (conjunctivitis), decreased blood pressure, tachycardia (heart rate over 100 beats per minute), hypoxia (below-normal oxygen level in your blood), lethargy, poor feeding and multi-system inflammatory vasculitis in children.
Ontario has expanded its guidance for COVID-19 testing. If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms, are concerned you may have been exposed to the virus, or are an essential worker, call your nearest COVID-19 Assessment Centre to get tested.
If you start to feel unwell, you should go home and self-isolate. Use the Ministry of Health self-assessment tool to help determine if you need to seek further care or call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020.
If your symptoms are worsening or you are having a medical emergency (for example, problems breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, lips turning blue/grey), call 9-1-1.
When it comes to COVID-19, what does ‘asymptomatic’ mean? And does it matter?
Asymptomatic is a term to describe people who may have been exposed to, or have, COVID-19, but do not have any symptoms.
Most often, COVID-19 is spread by people with symptoms. However, the virus can also be spread by individuals who have COVID-19 but are asymptomatic. Because they do not show any obvious signs of the virus, these individuals may be unaware they have COVID-19 and can infect others without knowing it.
What does this mean? COVID-19 symptoms can take an average of five days to appear, be very mild to severe and differ depending on the person. That’s why it is critical to protect against the spread of COVID-19.
If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or you begin to feel unwell, self-isolate immediately and use Ontario’s COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to see what additional care you need. Stay home and stay informed to stop the spread!
What is the risk of getting sick and who is most vulnerable?
COVID-19 is a serious health threat. Given the growing number of cases locally and in Canada, the risk is high and it’s essential to take steps to slow the spread. Generally anyone can be susceptible to COVID-19. In some cases, some people may be at higher risk from the virus and should take additional precautions. These include:
Older adults.
People with compromised immune systems or underlying medical conditions.
For now, there is no specific treatments for COVID-19. Most people with common coronavirus illness will recover on their own. Your health care provider may recommend steps you can take to relieve symptoms.
In terms of a vaccine, none is currently available in Canada although multiple efforts are underway globally to develop one.
No, the viruses are very different and distinct. The annual flu shot will not provide any protection against COVID-19 (though it is highly recommended to get an annual flu shot to prevent influenza, a serious infectious disease in its own right).
How long does the COVID-19 virus live on surfaces?
According to the World Health Organization, it’s uncertain how long the virus that causes
COVID-19 survives on surfaces, but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses.
Studies suggest coronaviruses can live on surfaces from a few hours up to
several days. Often, it’s based on conditions like type of surface, temperature
or humidity of the environment.
Current evidence shows the main way COVID-19 spreads is through
person-to-person direct contact and respiratory droplets that have the
potential to be propelled for up to two metres. According to Public Health
Ontario, there are no reports of COVID-19 being spread through handling
groceries or similar items, or of foodborne related illnesses.
If you think a surface may be infected with the COVID-19 virus, clean it with simple disinfectant to kill the virus and protect yourself and others. Clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.
Due to COVID-19, is it safe to eat unpackaged fruit and vegetables? If so, how do I safely wash and eat these foods?
The rules for washing unpackaged fruit and vegetables are the same, even with COVID-19. That means, washing hands with soap and water before handling any food, then thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables under cold running water. To be extra careful, consider washing your hands with soap and water after you handle/wash unpackaged fruit and vegetables too.
What is the Health Unit’s role in responding to COVID-19?
The local Health Unit is following the lead of the Ontario Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario, and the Public Health Agency of Canada in responding to COVID-19. HKPR is working with local hospitals who have put measures in place to screen individuals who are suspected of having COVID-19. When suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 are identified in this area, the Health Unit works with the Ministry, Public Health Ontario Laboratory, and local hospitals in the management of the case and any contacts.
Anyone who begins to feel unwell with these symptoms MUST go home and self-isolate immediately. You should use the Ministry of Health self-assessment tool to help determine if you need to seek further care. You can also contact Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 or the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020 for further guidance.
I’ve been tested for COVID-19, so where can I get results?
You can go online to the Ontario government website to quickly access your test results. You’ll need to provide your health card number, name, date of birth and postal code to confirm your identity. If you’re experiencing problems with the online portal or do not have Internet access, call toll-free at 1-866-250-1554.
If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or arm.
Practise physical distancing by avoiding close contact with others outside your household. This means keeping a minimum distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others. Currently, social circles (or bubbles) are on pause in Ontario due to rising cases of COVID-19 in the province.
When going out in the community, keep COVID-19 precautions in mind at all times. Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health is currently urging everyone to limit trips outside of home for only essential purposes like work, school, groceries, medical appointments and outdoor physical activity. In addition, travel to other regions of Ontario — especially those areas with high rates of COVID-19 transmission to places with low COVID-19 transmission rates — should only be for essential purposes as well.
Wear a non-medical mask or face covering inside public places, as directed by the Health Unit. The Ontario government is also mandating the use of face coverings in all public indoor settings across the province, such as businesses, facilities and workplaces, with limited exemptions, including corrections and developmental services.
Stay home if you or a family member are ill. This is essential to prevent the spread of illness. This poster can give you additional information on how to help your family stay healthy.
If you are an older adult or someone with a compromised immune system, you may be more susceptible to COVID-19. Take extra precautions to protect yourself from the virus.
If you are ill and must visit a hospital emergency department, clinic or healthcare provider, call ahead or tell them right away when you arrive that you have a respiratory illness and wear a mask while waiting to be seen.
If visiting people in hospitals or long-term care homes, check first with the facility to see what guidelines are in place. Be sure to follow instructions as directed.
Consider the risks before attending any large gathering. Follow the rules too if hosting your own social gathering. Currently, the Ontario government limits private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.
Watch these video resources on how your organization/workplace can prepare for COVID-19. These print resources may also be useful.
Be prepared by planning ahead, but do so within reason and recognizing that everyone is in this together.
Washing your hands properly and regularly can remove the germs that make us sick. We need to wash our hands many times through the day: before eating meals/snacks, before and after preparing food, after going to the washroom, after touching an animal, and after handling garbage. Wash your hands with clean, running water and soap. If soap and water is not available, or our hands aren’t visibly dirty, you can use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, you MUST practise physical distancing by staying at least 2 metres (6 feet) from others. The only exceptions are if people are within your immediate household. Individuals who live alone may consider having close contact with another household.
Should I wear a non-medical mask or face covering?
Face coverings have become the new normal during COVID-19. It’s important to know when and where to wear a mask properly.
As of July 13, 2020, the Health Unit is directing that non-medical masks or face coverings be used in all commercial establishments in City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County and Haliburton County. For complete details on mask use directive, including who is exempt, click here. The Ontario government is also now mandating the use of face coverings in all public indoor settings across the province, such as businesses, facilities and workplaces, with limited exemptions, including corrections and developmental services.
Face coverings will not protect you from getting COVID-19. However when worn properly, non-medical masks can help to cover your mouth and nose to prevent your respiratory droplets from contaminating other people or landing on common surfaces.
When wearing a cloth mask/face covering, follow this Public Health Ontario fact sheet on how to properly wear and throw away masks. You can also watch this Health Unit video for further guidance on properly using/wearing cloth masks.
Be sure to save medical masks (like surgical and N-95 varieties) for health care providers and those providing direct care to someone with COVID-19.
Should I wear rubber gloves outdoors to reduce my risk of COVID-19?
Wearing rubber gloves out in
public does NOT reduce your risk of COVID-19. Regular handwashing with
soap/water and not touching your face offer more protection. Even if you wear
gloves, you can still pick up COVID-19 if you touch your face with the dirty
gloves, and this could then spread the contamination and infect you.
The fact is people don’t need
to wear gloves unless they are providing direct care to someone infected with
COVID-19.
How should I throw out disposable gloves, given the current COVID-19 situation?
Safely disposing of used
gloves anytime is important to reduce the risk of illness, so casually tossing
them aside when you’re done with them is not advised. When
removing the gloves, it’s essential to avoid contamination of your hands and
arms and clothing (etc.). Public Health Ontario offers a five-step process for safely taking off gloves
and encourages you to properly wash your hands afterwards.
Used gloves should be disposed
of in a proper garbage can for safe disposal. Never stuff used gloves into your
pocket or purse. Gloves should NEVER be re-used.
COVID-19 is affecting people in many ways. The situation can seem overwhelming, especially if you have children. Taking care of yourself – and your mental health – is even more important now. Click here for more resources.
Should I use public transit given the current COVID-19 situation?
If you are sick, do not ride public transit. Instead self-isolate at home, do not go out, and use the Ontario government’s COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to see what further care you may need.
If you need public transit to get to your destination, consider these tips:
Wash your hands thoroughly after using any kind of public transportation.
Practise physical distancing. Aim to ride transit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds; avoid close contact with other passengers; and maintain a 2-metre distance apart.
Wear a non-medical mask or face covering.
If you use a taxi or rideshare service, sit in the back and open a window for air circulation.
Please remember that public
transit agencies have implemented enhanced cleaning measures to reduce the spread
of COVID-19.
There is no known risk of COVID-19 entering Canada on parcels or packages coming from other parts of the world. Currently there is no evidence to support the transmission of COVID-19 associated with imported goods.
What if I’m attending, or my group is organizing, an event/meeting with a large gathering of people?
As of Sept. 19, the Ontario government is limiting private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). The new limits do NOT apply to events or gatherings held in staffed businesses and facilities, such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events.
What is the Health Unit’s advice on wearing masks, especially the homemade (cloth) variety?
The Health Unit is instructing that non-medical masks and face coverings need to be worn inside public places. Click here for complete details. For information on the difference between medical and non-medical masks, click here.
Below are locations of the specific COVID-19 Assessment Centres in Northumberland County, Haliburton County and the City of Kawartha Lakes. Please note that all COVID-19 Assessment Centres are now by appointment only (no walk-ins are allowed). Effective immediately, you are only asked to use these assessment centres if you are:
As of Oct. 19, the RMH COVID-19 Assessment Centre will be moving inside Ross Memorial Hospital. It will be located in the former Admitting area on the south side of the hospital. Testing continues to be done on an appointment-basis only. To get tested:
Visit the Ontario COVID-19 website to see if you qualify for testing under the current provincial guidelines.
Call 705-328-6217 or request an appointment online.
Do not leave multiple messages or submit multiple forms
Appointments are available Monday to Friday from 9:30-5:15 pm
You will receive a call back within 1-2 business days
When arriving for your appointment:
Arrive to the hospital at your appointment time.
Park in the short-term parking lot at the south side of the hospital, entering from Kent St. (There is no charge for parking for those visiting the assessment centre. All other patients should use short or long term parking on the North side of the hospital.)
Wear a mask
Bring your health card and identification
Proceed to the South Entrance (follow signage for COVID-19 Assessment Centre)
Maintain physical distancing from others awaiting testing
Your results should be available online within 72 hours of testing. If unable to access your results online, or to book an in-home test, call (705) 328-6217.
If symptoms are severe, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or losing consciousness, you should be seen in the Emergency Department immediately.
NHH’s COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now located within the hospital at 1000 DePalma Drive, adjacent to the Emergency Department. A dedicated entry/exit is available.
NHH’s COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now operating on an appointment-basis only. Walk-ins will no longer be accepted due to high demand for COVID-19 testing services. To book an appointment, call 905-377-7783. The assessment centre is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
PLEASE NOTE: The assessment centre will be relocating very soon from the hospital building to a new trailer space located next to the hospital. Watch for more details.
The NHH COVID-19 Assessment Centre will screen patients, test (if deemed appropriate) and direct patients to proceed as required. Through a temporary arrangement with the Northumberland Family Health Team, the Community Health Centres of Northumberland, and local primary care physicians, the NHH COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now able to offer patients the option to see a primary care provider (family physician or nurse practitioner) in addition to receiving a COVID-19 test. Learn more details by calling the centre.
The centre is open Mondays to Thursdays from 9 am to 5 pm (closed Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays). To book an appointment for COVID-19 test, call the local Assessment Centre directly at 705-395-1801. Please do not go to the Assessment Centre without first calling to book an appointment. Please do not call Campbellford Memorial Hospital either.
As of Sept. 1, the Trent Hills COVID 19 Assessment Centre will be located at Campbellford Memorial Hospital on the basement level in the former paramedic bay and offices. Access to the site will be a drive-through, drive-up centre. All visitors are to remain in their cars, and Assessment Centre staff will provide assessment/testing to you while you remain in your vehicle.
For days the Assessment Centre is not available, contact the HKPR District Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020.
PLEASE NOTE: if your symptoms are severe, call 9-1-1 and alert the dispatcher to your symptoms.
The Haliburton County COVID-19 Community Assessment Centre is staffed by health care providers who will complete a phone assessment and advise as to appropriate next steps, which may include self-monitoring instructions, self-isolation instructions, or further assessment and testing in the drive-through facility. The Centre is for all residents of Haliburton County, regardless of whether you have a family doctor.
To contain the spread of COVID-19, the following declarations, orders and closures from different levels of government are now in place. Please read on for further details.
Local Medical Officer of Health Directive and Class Order
On April 14, 2020, the local Medical Officer of Health issued the following Class Order under Section 22 (5.01.1) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act. This order is designed to protect the health of local residents by reducing the spread of COVID-19 in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Who is Affected
The order applies to ALL persons in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes who:
are identified as a person diagnosed with COVID-19
otherwise have reasonable grounds to believe they have symptoms of COVID-19, or
are a close contact of a person identified in the above points.
What You Must Do
As of April 14, 2020 at noon, you must:
Isolate yourself without delay as instructed by the HKPR District Health Unit. This includes: remaining in your home or isolation facility. Do not go outside, unless on to a private balcony or enclosed yard where you can avoid close contact with others. You must not have any visitors into your home except as permitted by the Health Unit.
Remain in isolation until the expiry of a 14-day period that begins on the day on which you first show symptoms, are tested, or are diagnosed with COVID-19 (whichever is earliest, or on the last day of close contact). Follow these guidelines unless instructed otherwise by the Health Unit.
During the self-isolation period, reduce exposure to others to prevent the spread of infection or potential infection from COVID-19. Follow infection control instructions on the HKPR District Health Unit website (www.hkpr.on.ca) or those given to you by the Health Unit or any other staff of a healthcare facility to which you may seek or receive treatment.
Keep away from vulnerable persons. Follow any further instructions provided by the Health Unit pertaining to COVID- 19. In particular, you should seek clinical assessment over the phone – either by calling your primary care provider’s office or Telehealth Ontario 1-866-797-0000. If you need additional assessment, your primary care provider or Telehealth Ontario will direct you to in-person care options.
Seek prompt medical attention if your illness worsens by calling 911 and telling reponsders of your COVID-19 related diagnosis or symptoms.
Please Note: Testing for Other Individuals
The Province of Ontario has indicated that people who are not displaying any symptoms of COVID may elect to be tested. The class order presently in place does not apply to individuals who do not show signs or symptoms of COVID, unless they have also been identified as a close contact of a person who has been diagnosed with COVID. If you are not a “close contact” AND are asymptomatic, the class order does not apply to you, and you do not have to self isolate while awaiting your COVID test results. However, if at any time before or after having your test, and/or receiving your COVID diagnosis, you experience COVID symptoms, the class order AND the obligation to self-isolate will apply.
Under what authority did the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit issue a Class Order related to the COVID-19 outbreak to require persons to self-isolate?
The Health Protection and Promotion Act authorizes the Medical Officer of Health to make a Class Order to address the risks presented by the potential spread of COVID-19 to residents of the City of Kawartha Lakes and Northumberland and Haliburton Counties.
Why did the Medical Officer of Health issue this Class Order?
Based on the continuing increase in the number of people contracting COVID-19 in the City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton Counties, and experiences in cities around the world, this is a targeted mandatory measure that will strengthen our ability to reduce the loss of life from COVID-19, and preserve and protect the capacity of our health care system to respond and to provide care for those who need it.
While most people who have or may have COVID-19, as well as their close contacts, have been compliant with instructions from public health authorities to self-isolate, there are individuals who do not take these measures seriously enough. This Class Order is a legal tool to help us ensure that everyone who needs to self-isolate, complies.
Who is required to self-isolate under this Order?
All individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19; have signs and symptoms of COVID-19, have been tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting the results of their test; otherwise have reasonable grounds to believe they have symptoms of COVID-19; or are close contacts of those individuals, are required to self-isolate. A close contact is a person who is caring for or living in the same household with someone who has COVID-19 or is otherwise identified as a close contact by the HKPR District Health Unit.
When is the Order effective? How long must people self-isolate?
The order is effective from 12:00 p.m. (noon) on April 14, 2020, and will remain in effect until such time as the Medical Officer of Health determines it is no longer required.
Self-isolation is generally for a period of 14 days from the first onset of symptoms. In some cases, public health officials may direct an individual to extend the period of isolation, depending upon symptoms, other new cases identified in a household and test results.
Are there any exceptions?
Close contacts who are asymptomatic and provide an essential service may continue to provide that essential service. In addition, the Order does not restrict a person from receiving essential medical services or treatments, whether or not related to COVID-19. Other exceptions may be made in compelling circumstances, for example, individuals who do not have suitable housing to self-isolate, or who are fleeing domestic violence.
What does it mean to self-isolate under the Order?
Individuals who are affected by the Order are required to stay at home. If a person with COVID-19 is homeless, or where their home is otherwise unsuitable or unsafe for isolation purposes, they will be accommodated in an isolation facility to be determined. Self-isolation means not leaving home at all or having any visitors except as permitted by HKPR District Health Unit (for example, where a health care worker is visiting the home). People in self-isolation should arrange to have groceries and other necessities delivered to them. If you require any support with this, please notify HKPR District Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5020.
Image of the first page of the Class Order – click as a link
Stage 3 of COVID-19 reopening remains in place in Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the City of Kawartha Lakes. However, new public health restrictions are in place in COVID-19 hotspots — Toronto, Ottawa, Peel Region and York Regions. The new measures in these four regions include: prohibiting indoor dining at restaurants and bars, and closing gyms, movie theatres and casinos. These restrictions will be in place for the next 28 days. Local businesses are not impacted by these new restrictions. If you have questions about whether your business can reopen or not, call Ontario’s Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. For resources on opening, please visit the Ontario government website.
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health is urging everyone to limit trips outside of home for only essential purposes like work, school, groceries, medical appointments and outdoor physical activity. In addition, travel to other regions of Ontario — especially those areas with high rates of COVID-19 transmission to places with low COVID-19 transmission rates — should only be for essential purposes as well.
You are asked to only have close contact with people in your immediate household. Individuals who live alone may consider having close contact with another household.
As of now, the Ontario government is also mandating the use of face coverings in all public indoor settings across the province, such as businesses, facilities and workplaces, with limited exemptions, including corrections and developmental services. Masks must also now be worn throughout religious services at places of worship.
The Ontario government is now limiting the size of private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). The new limits do NOT apply to events or gatherings held in staffed businesses and facilities, such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events.
Playgrounds and play structures are now open as part of Stage 3 reopening.
The Ontario government is improving its efforts to more quickly test, trace and isolate cases of COVID-19 to stop the spread of the virus. Included in this is a joint provincial-federal partnership to launch COVID Alert, a new privacy-first exposure notification app. The app is designed to improve COVID-19 tracking and will be launched in early July. More details about it are expected soon.
The Ontario government is expanding COVID-19 testing to pharmacies in the province. This testing at pharmacies will be free, by appointment only, and available ONLY to people who are not showing COVID-19 symptoms. Pharmacies will also be doing COVID pre-screening of anyone seeking a test. To learn which pharmacies are offering testing, click here.
Places of worship in Ontario are now allowed to reopen with physical distancing in place and attendance limited to more than 30 per cent of building capacity to ensure the safety of worshipers.
The Ontario government is allowing family visits at long-term care homes, retirement homes and other residential settings. Strict health and safety guidelines will be in place to protect the health of residents, staff and visitors. Contact the care home for specifics on how to arrange a visit.
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has released an updated directive to allow the gradual restart of non-essential services provided by regulated health care providers like dentists, chiropractors and others.
Federal Orders
If you have travelled abroad, you MUST immediately self-isolate/quarantine and stay home for 14 days. This is due to the Canadian government putting in place an Emergency Order under the Quarantine Act. Further mandatory requirements for travellers entering Canada were put in place on April 14 by the federal government. These quarantine measures apply to all travellers arriving in Canada and is aimed at slowing down the spread of COVID-19. NOTE: The only exceptions are essential workers, including those who ensure the continue flow of goods and essential services across the border.
COVID-19 testing is fundamental to help stop the spread of the virus. Click here for resources and links on how, where, when and why you should be tested.
As more businesses, services and activities resume, the need to continue taking COVID-19 precautions is important. Read on for specific reopening guidelines/rules for different public settings and situations.
PLEASE NOTE: The Ontario government is now limiting the size of private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). The new limits do NOT apply to events or gatherings held in staffed businesses and facilities, such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events. Existing rules, including public health and workplace safety measures for these businesses and facilities, continue to be in effect.
ADDITIONAL NOTE: Social circles (or bubbles) are now on pause in Ontario. this means you can only have close contact with people in your immediate household. Keep 2 metres (6 feet) physical distancing from everyone else.
If you have further questions, contact the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5006, or email info@hkpr.on.ca .
On This Page
Click on links below to easily access content for each public setting:
These facilities are for sports and recreational activities, including gyms and fitness studios
Physical distancing must be maintained, except if playing a team sport or as needed for personal training
Gyms and fitness facilities can now have up to 50 patrons for each indoor sport or fitness room, but must ensure physical distancing of at least two metres is in place.
For fitness classes and organized activities. It’s strongly recommended to assign spaces to class participants by marking circles on the floor to indicate where to stand/exercise. This allows for easier physical distancing.
As of Aug. 21, the current indoor gathering limit of 50 people will now apply on a per meeting room or event space basis at professional meeting and event facilities. These include convention centres, hotels, motels, resorts, banquet halls and conference centres.
Camps providing supervised overnight accommodation for children remain closed.
Pools, Splash Pads and Wading Pools
Locker rooms, change rooms, showers and
washrooms must be cleaned and disinfected as frequently as necessary to
maintain a safe and sanitary environment
Access is not allowed to high-touch features
such as pool slides, diving boards and climbing structures (only exception is ladders)
A pool, splash pad, spray pad, wading pool or
whirlpool must comply with physical distancing requirements. This includes: operating
with a reduced capacity or activity enrolment, and operating by appointment or
timed entry
Equipment provided or rented to patrons must be
cleaned and disinfected after each use
Steam rooms and saunas are not allowed to open at
this time
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or
face coverings:
Patrons
and staff must wear masks in all public areas and any location in which they
interact with others
Masks
are not required to be worn outside, or while exercising or swimming.
Playgrounds and Play Structures
Outdoor playgrounds and play structures can now open. There are no recommendations for extra cleaning or disinfecting of these structures. Anyone who uses playground equipment is encouraged to wash hands with soap and water or perform hand hygiene with alcohol-based hand sanitizer after playing on them. Always stay home if you are sick.
For indoor playgrounds and play structures:
Physical distancing of at least 2-metres (6 feet) must be in place at all indoor facilities, except if individuals are in the same household or social circle.
Gathering limits of no more than 50 people must be followed at these indoor facilities.
High-touch surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice a day, or more often when necessary. Use this Public Health Ontario disinfection chart for direction.
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or face coverings:
Patrons and staff must wear masks in all public areas and any location in which they interact with others
Masks are not required to be worn outside
Team Sports/Live Sporting Events
Prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports is not allowed.
Team sports (like wrestling, judo) in which body contact is common or integral are not yet permitted, unless measures are in place to prevent prolonged or deliberate physical contact
Amateur and recreational sports leagues may resume as long as they do not allow prolonged or deliberate physical contact between players OR if measures are in place to avoid physical contact between players
Leagues can have no more than 50 participants in total. If a league goes over this limit, it may divide into smaller groups of no more than 50. Currently, players are not allowed to compete against others outside of their league/group.
Spectators at indoor sporting events (including professional sports) are limited to 50 people, while a maximum of 100 people are allowed at outdoor events (these totals do not include players or event participants). Physical distancing measures must be in place, with assigned seating where possible
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or face coverings:
Patrons and staff must wear masks in all public areas and any location in which they interact with others
Masks are not required to be worn outside, or while exercising.
For specific fact sheets on restarting sports and recreation programs, call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 5020, or email info@hkpr.on.ca
Restaurant/Bars
Restaurants, bars, food trucks, concession stands, and other food/drink establishments may open for dine-in eating. No buffet-style service may be provided. Patrons must be seated when eating or drinking.
Capacity limits for dine-in eating are based on the ability of patrons to maintain a physical distance of at least 2 metres (6 feet) from others. Establishments must take appropriate measures to ensure a 2-metre distance between tables (unless they are separated by plexiglass or some other impermeable barrier)
Nightclubs are not allowed to open, except to serve food or drinks to patrons (must follow same rules that apply to restaurants/bars).
Singing or music may be performed by a person or group at the restaurant/bar with restrictions, such as physical distancing measures and barriers being put up between performers and patron. Dancing may only be performed by someone working at the establishment with restrictions.
Physical distancing of 2-metres between patrons from different households also applies to food trucks, food courts, concession stands and tours (including tasting at wineries, breweries and distilleries)
For outdoor patios or dining areas, seating must be configured to allow at least 2-metres distance between tables. Patrons do not need to wear non-medical masks on patios.
Restaurants and bars must keep client logs (name and contact information) for every patron who frequents the business over the past 30 days. This information must be provided to the Health Unit for COVID-19 contact tracing purposes. NOTE: Food courts and cafeterias are exempt from this rule provided seating is set up to allow for 2 metre distance between patrons.
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or face coverings in restaurants/bars:
Patrons who come for dine-in eating must wear a mask upon entering and exiting the premises. Masks also need to be worn if they get up for anything during their meal (including using the washroom). Masks are not required when seated at a table
Restaurant servers who interact with customers must wear masks.
Live Shows, Performing Arts and Movie Theatres
Spectators at indoor events (like concerts and theatrical performances) are limited to 50 people, while a maximum of 100 people are allowed at outdoor events. Physical distancing measures must be in place, with assigned seating where possible. (NOTE: Employees/performers are not included in the crowd size)
Drive-through and drive-in venues are not subject to gathering limits.
Provide hand sanitizer in key areas like lobby.
In concession areas, self-serve is prohibited. Where refills are offered, a new cup/dish must be provided to reduce contact.
Singers and brass/wind instrument players must be separated from any spectators by plexiglass or another impermeable barrier.
Every performer or employees of the performing arts centre/theatre must maintain a physical distance of at least 2-metres from every other person, except for:
Performances and rehearsals
The purchase of tickets/admission, food or beverages
Health and safety reasons
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or face coverings:
Patrons and staff must wear masks in all public areas and any location in which they interact with others
Masks are not required to be worn outside
Movie theatres should stagger showtimes, encourage online purchases to reduce cash transactions, encourage guests to only arrive 15 minutes prior to the movie, remove/close off equipment and furniture to reduce loitering, and increase cleaning/disinfecting of high-touch surfaces.
Arcade/game rooms are prohibited.
Seniors Halls
Indoor gathering limits are limited to 50 people, while outdoor gatherings are capped at 100 people (employees not included).
Physical distancing must be in place.
No table games (e.g. cards, etc.) are allowed.
Ensure equipment (e.g. darts, etc.) is properly cleaned and disinfected between each use. Activities must not be practised or played if they require the use of fixed structures that cannot be cleaned and disinfected between each use.
Indoor weddings are limited to 50 people, while
a maximum of 100 people is allowed at outdoor weddings. NOTE: These crowd limits apply if a wedding is held at a private
home. If a wedding is held in a public hall, building or structure, the
gathering must not exceed 30% of the capacity of the particular room
All wedding attendees must follow 2-metre physical
distancing rules.
No buffet-style dinner is allowed. Guests must
be seated when eating or drinking. Seating must be configured so that guests at
different tables are separated by: a distance of 2 metres OR plexiglass or another impermeable barrier.
No one is allowed to dance, sing or perform
music except if they are a hired performer, musician or entertainer. To perform,
they must:
Be
separated
from guests and other performers by plexiglass or another impermeable barrier
while singing or performing on a brass/wind instrument
Maintain a
physical distance of at least 2-meters from every other person while singing or
performing music
Clean and
disinfect equipment used while singing or performing music between each use.
There is one exception to the dancing rule: a first
dance is allowed for the bride and groom and their parents
Singing is not allowed during the wedding service.
When it comes to the use of non-medical masks or
face coverings at weddings:
Guests must wear a non-medical mask upon
entering/exiting the venue. Masks can be removed when seated.
Guests who need to get up for anything during the
service or meal (such as going to the washroom) must re-mask.
The bride and groom are not required to wear a
mask during wedding vows. The officiant (priest/minister) is not required to
wear a mask if he/she maintains 2-metre physical distance
Guest
are not required to wear mask outdoors if they can maintain a 2-metre physical
distance
Servers
who interact with guests must wear masks.
Personal Service Settings
These include businesses providing hairdressing and barbering, tattooing, aesthetics and piercing and other body modifications
School is back in session with additional preventive measures
in place to protect against COVID-19. The Health Unit is working closely with
local school boards and other public health units to ensure a safe return for all
students, staff and families.
Should I have my child tested for COVID-19 before they return to school?
Testing your child before returning to school is generally not recommended if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms, unless they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
What if my child shows symptoms before going to school or while at school?
As per the Ministry of Education Guide to Reopening Ontario Schools, all students and staff must self-screen every day using a checklist before arriving at school. If a student or staff member is experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, they must stay home from school and should seek testing and appropriate medical attention.
If a student or staff member feels sick, or develops symptoms while at school, schools will follow the following protocol:
Students or staff who develop COVID-19 symptoms will immediately be separated from others, and the family will be contacted to arrange pick-up.
Staff and students with symptoms will be directed to seek medical advice including the recommendation of testing for COVID 19 as appropriate or as advised by their medical provider. Check out local COVID 19 Assessment Centre locations, and book an appointment for COVID- 19 testing.
Siblings/staff of ill individual can remain in school until further medical advice is received and should self-monitor for symptoms.
Staff and/or students who receive an alternative diagnosis than COVID-19 can return to school once they are symptom-free for 24 hours.
Can I go to work if I don’t have any symptoms but my child is ill and we are waiting on results from their COVID-19 test?
If your child is symptomatic and has been tested for COVID-19, you and your family, including siblings, should self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. You can continue to go to school and/or work if you have no symptoms.
If while self-monitoring symptoms of COVID-19 develop, self-isolate and be tested for COVID-19 (and no longer attend work and school).
If any members of your household test positive for COVID-19, you will be contacted by Public Health directly with more detailed advice.
What if there is a positive case in my child’s school?
If a COVID-19 positive case is identified in a school, staff from the Health Unit will provide further instructions on who else in the school may need testing and/or monitoring/isolation at that time. Staff/children who are being managed by public health (e.g. confirmed cases of COVID-19, household contacts of cases, etc.) must follow the instructions provided by the HKPR District Health Unit on when they can return to school.
What if a parent/guardian tests positive for COVID-19?
Parents/guardians are not required to report their test results to their school, however it is recommended. Members of your household are required to self-isolate and should not attend work or school. If your child is at school, your child should be picked up immediately. Staff from the HKPR District Health Unit will be in contact with you for assessment and provide further direction.
Who will declare an outbreak at the school?
The Heath Unit will declare an outbreak after identifying two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students and/or staff (or other visitors) in a school with an epidemiological link where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including transportation and before/after school care).
Examples of reasonably having acquired infection in school include:
No obvious source of infection outside of the school setting; OR
Known exposure in the school setting
HKPR District Health Unit staff will work closely with the school to determine close contacts of the case and will provide direction on isolation and facilitate testing.
Changes to Health Unit Services in Schools Due to COVID-19
Due to the pandemic, the following services in schools are being impacted:
Dental Screening for students in schools has been postponed until further notice. If your child has a toothache or cavity AND you are unable to pay for dental treatment, the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program may be able to help pay for dental care costs. For help to enroll your child in the HSO program, call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 1247.
Vision Screening for SK students has been cancelled for the 2020/21 school year. It’s recommended you call an optometrist to book a FREE eye examination for your child. To find an optometrist in your area, visit the College of Optometrists of Ontario or call the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577, ext. 1216.
During COVID-19, take steps to create a ‘home safe home.’ Reduce the spread of illness, while also supporting everyone’s physical and mental health. Scroll down for more information, supports and resources to help fight COVID-19.
COVID-19 is a serious health threat, so it’s essential to take steps to prevent its spread. For employers and employees, this means taking precautions to protect the health of everyone in your workplace, including clients and customers. Read on for more resources and links on how to stay safe.
Get-togethers with family and friends are important to celebrate holidays and mark birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. During COVID-19, take steps to protect your loved ones and prevent the spread of the virus.
NOTE: With the rise in COVID-19 cases in Ontario, make an informed choice about attending family gatherings and celebrations. Currently, virtual gatherings/events are the safest way to visit or recognize occasions with family and friends outside your household. The fewer people you come in contact with or have at a gathering, the lower your risk of COVID-19 transmission.
FURTHER NOTE: Ontario has put a pause on social circles (or bubbles) due to rising COVID-19 cases in the province. As a result, you should only be in close contact with people within your own immediate household. Maintain two metres (6 feet) physical distancing from everyone else. Individuals who live alone may consider having close contact with another household.
ADDITIONAL NOTE: The Ontario government is now limiting the size of private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). Please ensure you follow this new requirement. Failure to do so could lead to fines for the event host and people attending the function. The new size limits DO not apply to events or gatherings held in staffed businesses and facilities, such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events.
Think twice about visiting areas of Ontario with high COVID-19 transmission rates. Instead, connect by phone, social media or video-conferencing. You can also consider using platforms to hold a virtual party/celebration.
Avoid hugs, kisses, handshakes and other gestures with those outside your household. Instead, wave and greet others verbally. While it may be difficult, this can protect your loved ones, especially older adults and people with compromised immune systems who are more at risk from COVID-19 complications.
Limit the size of family/private social gatherings to no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors (the two gatherings cannot be combined to host 35 people). Please ensure you follow this requirement, as failing to do so could lead to fines for the event host and guests attending the function.
Practise physical distancing as much as possible. Keep a 2 metre (6-foot) distance from anyone who is outside your household.
Wear a mask if inside where physical distancing is a challenge.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after attending a gathering.
Check ahead with the host to see what COVID-19 preventive measures are in place.
Are you at high risk of developing serious complications if you become infected with COVID-19 OR if you have to self-isolate, would this seriously disrupt your upcoming plans, priorities and responsibilities?
Are there people at high risk of developing serious complications of COVID-19 in your household that you could unintentionally infect?
Has the host made changes to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (such as spacing chairs, encouraging physical distancing and having guests who are visiting and not part of your household wear masks)?
Are you able to adjust your plans at the event (such as stepping away if it gets crowded, wearing a mask and washing your hands)?
Hosting a Gathering/Party
With COVID-19 cases rising in Ontario, give serious consideration to putting parties/gatherings on hold and celebrate only with those in your immediate household. Instead, consider virtual gatherings with your extended family and friends.
Be aware of the size limits on private parties/gatherings. No more than 10 people are allowed at indoor parties/gatherings, while 25 is the maximum amount of guests at outdoor functions. You could face a stiff fine for hosting a party that breaks the size gathering limits.
Remind guests to stay home if sick. Consider keeping a list of guests who attend for potential future COVID-19 contact tracing needs.
When entertaining, allow for physical distancing for your guests. Allow people to safely maintain a 2 metre (6 foot) distance, especially if they are outside your household.
Be upfront with your guests about the COVID-19 prevention measures you’re taking so they know what to expect before they arrive.
When possible, host your gathering outdoors. In colder weather months, go indoors but try to ensure the room or space is well-ventilated (e.g. open a window).
Arrange tables and chairs in advance to allow for physical distancing (if already set up, guests may be reluctant to move them).
People from the same household can be grouped/seated together, but should be 2 metres (6 feet) apart from other families.
When guests arrive, minimize gestures that promote close contact between those outside households.
Encourage guests to wear masks when physical distancing is difficult. Consider providing masks for guests or ask them to bring their own.
Ensure there is enough soap and hand sanitizer for people to use during the gathering.
Use single-use hand towels or paper towels for drying hands so guests do not share a towel.
Remind guests to wash their hands before serving or eating food.
Limit the number of people handling or serving food (including limiting access to where food is being prepared, such as the kitchen).
Avoid buffet-style meals. If serving any food, consider identifying one person to serve all food so that multiple people are not handling the serving utensils
Limit contact with high-touch surfaces or shared items. If possible, clean and disinfect these surfaces and shared items between uses.
If you choose to use any shared items that are reusable (e.g. seating covers, tablecloths, linen napkins), wash, clean, and sanitize them after the event.
Unless a person is exempted, non-medical masks or face coverings should be worn at all times inside public places, including places of worship. For religious services/rites or ceremonies, indoor weddings and funeral services, attendees must wear masks at all times with a secured physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others.
Group singing is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider using audio or video recordings.
Where speaking or singing is required as a part of a faith-based service, masks may be removed for the purposes of speaking where sufficient distance (greater than 4 metres) is provided between the speaker(s) and participants. In the event of loud speaking or any singing simultaneously during a speaking engagement, masks may be removed with sufficient barrier(s) required, such as glass or Plexiglas that forms a complete barrier between the speaker(s)/singer(s) and others
Singers (eg. choir members) or performers do not need to wear a mask while they are rehearsing or performing. Singers and players of brass or wind instruments must be separated from any spectators by Plexiglass or some other impermeable barrier. Every performer and other person must maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from every other person, except, if it is necessary for the performers to be closer to each other for the purposes of the performance or rehearsal. During periods of rest in between performances, face coverings should be used.
Weddings and Funerals
More people are now allowed to attend wedding or funeral services. For indoor ceremonies, the number of people allowed to attend a funeral or wedding can now be a maximum of 30 per cent capacity of the ceremony venue. Wedding and funeral ceremonies taking place outdoors will be limited to 100 attendees. For both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, those attending must follow proper health and safety rules.
COVID-19 Preventive Measures in Places of Worship
Maintain physical distancing by staying two metres (six feet) apart at all times.
Anyone who is feeling sick should stay home and not attend a service.
Encourage everyone to wash their hands. Ensure hand-cleaning stations and alcohol-based sanitizer dispensers are available at entrances to your place of worship.
Ensure everyone wears a mask or face covering at all times, including when seated during the worship service.
Stop shaking hands or hugging.
Remind people to cough/sneeze into their sleeves.
Discourage group singing. Use audio or video recordings instead of live singing or wind instruments
Review the sharing of items during special religious sacraments/rites, at least while COVID-19 continues to circulate. You may want to consult further with your parish/diocese/denomination/national body.
Maintain a clean and safe space through regular cleaning and disinfecting. High-touch surfaces should be cleaned twice a day or following each service (whichever is more frequent).
Encourage staff and visitors to stay home when sick.
Have a traffic flow plan in place, such as one-way enter/one-way exit.
Encourage members/parishioners who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 (including those over age 70 and people with compromised immune systems) to take part in virtual services or hold a dedicated service solely for this group.
Consider keeping a record of all attendees for contact tracing in case of a COVID-19 outbreak.
Stay Connected During COVID-19 in Other Ways
Continue to offer virtual or live-streamed services to those who are unable to attend services
Keep in touch by phone or via social media/email/text. Share credible information – like what’s on this website on how people can protect themselves from COVID-19.
Adults aged 70 years and older or people with compromised immune systems may be at higher risk of COVID-19. Think about ways that you can reach out to these individuals by phone or electronical means. See if you can assist with essential errands (e.g. groceries, pharmacy pick-up), keeping in mind the importance of protecting your own health by practising physical distancing.
COVID-19 has changed many things, including how we work. No matter where and how you are working, it’s important to follow key preventive measures to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Plan for physical distancing whenever and wherever possible. Avoid sharing work stations, tools or equipment. If you have to share items, clean and disinfect all commonly touched surfaces before you touch them. Allow for lots of space between you and other people. Stay at least 2 metres (6 feet) apart whenever possible.
The Health Unit is now instructing that non-medical masks or face coverings be worn inside public places. Employees who work with the public are covered by this. Learn more about this.
Visit the Ontario government website for a full list of sector-specific guidelines to reopen workplaces. You can also go to these Ontario health and safety associations for more COVID-19 health and safety advice tailored to your workplace:
You have a right to a safe workplace – now more than ever during COVID-19. Learn about your rights during COVID-19 and discover resources/supports that can help reduce the risk of illness for you and others in your workplace.
What if There is a Case of COVID-19 in My Workplace?
Employees/Co-workers
Anyone with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 must NOT go to work and should self-isolate at home. If contact with a positive case is confirmed, further directions will be provided by the Health Unit
Physical distancing rules at work mean employees should not be in close contact with each other. If, however, an employee is identified as being a close contact of a co-worker who is confirmed or suspected of having COVID-19, the person should immediately take Ontario’s online COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to see what further care is needed. They can also call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. The employee may also be contacted by the Health Unit with further directions on what to do, including self-isolating or self-monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19.
Employers are strongly urged to support the COVID-19 instructions your employees have received from any health care provider. This protects the health of your workers and customers
Encourage everyone at work to continue following physical distancing rules (staying 2 metres or 6 feet apart from others) and regularly wash hands with soap and water
Continue to frequently clean and disinfect commonly touched or shared surfaces at work, including tools, equipment and workstations.
Customers/Clients
Follow direction from the Health Unit about any extra precautions that are needed to reduce the risk of illness. These directives can include: getting employees/staff who were in close contact with the customer/client to self-isolate or self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms, increasing cleaning and disinfecting at your workplace, and other measures
Continue to keep employees and customers safe:
Follow provincial rules that specify how your business/workplace can operate (for example, only offer curbside pickup, limit number of people in store, etc.).
Ensure a 2-metre (6-foot) distance is kept between people.
Reduce overcrowding.
Increase your online or phone services
Offer curb-side delivery
Make hand sanitizer available for customers at entry and exit points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an employee come to work if someone in their household has developed symptoms of COVID-19?
It is recommended that the symptomatic household member be tested for COVID-19 and self-isolate while awaiting test results.
If the employee has no symptoms, they can continue to work and self-monitor for symptoms, unless alternative direction has been provided by public health.
What should I do if an employee at my workplace develops symptoms of COVID-19? Should I send everyone else home? Should I close?
The employee with symptoms should be isolated from others, sent home immediately and advised to seek medical assessment and testing for their symptoms. Other employees can continue to work and should self-monitor for symptoms. It is not a requirement to send all other employees home and/or close unless advised by public health.
If one of my employees tells me that someone in their household travels regularly outside of Canada for work (e.g. a truck driver), can my employee still come to work?
Yes. Household members are not required to quarantine or self-isolate in this case but should self-monitor for symptoms.
Someone in an employee’s household has been identified as a contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19. Can the employee still come to work?
The employee can go to work but should self-monitor for symptoms.
When can an employee return to work if they have been sick with COVID-19?
Health Unit staff will provide detailed direction to all positive cases and their close contacts on self-isolation requirements and return to work.
When can an employee return to the workplace if they have been sick, but do not have COVID-19?
If the individual was tested for COVID-19 and the result was negative, the recommendation is to wait for 24 hours after symptoms resolve before returning to the workplace, unless otherwise advised by public health.
How do I protect myself, my employees and my customers from COVID-19?
Remember these key public health measures:
Self-monitor for symptoms daily, and stay home if you are sick
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer
Cough/Sneeze into elbow or tissue, put tissue in garbage and wah hands right away
Keep at least 2 metres physical distance from others
Wear a mask when indoors in public spaces, and anytime keeping 2m physical distance is not possible
Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces
Post signage to remind employees, customers and visitors of all of the above
Self-isolate if you develop symptoms
Stay within your social circle
Related Topics
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Know your rights as an employee when it comes to health and safety during COVID-19. Resources/Legislation All levels of governments are taking steps to support/protect people affected by coronavirus. The following resources can help you understand your rights. (Information is current at the time of this posting; please check official ... Read More
COVID-19 has changed many things, including how we work. No matter where and how you are working, it’s important to follow key preventive measures to stop the spread of COVID-19. On this page:Key messages:Workplace health and safety resources:Latest UpdatesWhat if There is a Case of COVID-19 in My Workplace?Employees/Co-workersCustomers/ClientsFrequently Asked ... Read More
Protect yourself, your staff and customers from COVID-19. Here's what to do: Provide hand sanitizer and tissues at all entrances and work stations Encourage employees to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.Encourage everyone at work ... Read More
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Keep your distance at work to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here's what to do to practise physical distancing at work: Staff and customers MUST maintain a distance of two metres (six feet) wherever possible. Offer alternatives to customers such as delivery or pick up services. Consider partnering with ... Read More
Follow us for COVID-19 Updates
You can find and follow updates on COVID-19 in your local community via the following HKPR resources:
No matter where and how you work, it’s important to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As an employer, it rests with you to ensure all preventive measures are being followed.
Plan for physical distancing whenever and wherever possible. If work can be done at home, allow staff to do that. Avoid face-to-face meetings. Avoid sharing work stations, tools or equipment, alter shifts, and stagger breaks. Arrange for delivery or curbside pick up for customers and clients. Prioritize physical distancing as a key measure to stop the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace.
Practise good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette always. Remind employees to wash their hands frequently with soap and water. Provide hand sanitizer and ensure access to handwashing facilities and soap.
Be aware that the Health Unit is now instructing that non-medical masks or face coverings be worn inside public places. Employees who work with the public are covered by this. Learn more about this.
Develop a plan to effectively manage employee absence and ensure that everyone stays home if they are sick.
Consider employee and visitor screening strategies. Place posters at entrances and employee common spaces. You may also want to get staff to complete a health screening questionnaire before each work shift. The survey would ask if staff have any COVID-19 symptoms. Such a questionnaire could be done electronically or using a paper-based questionnaire sheet like the sample provided here.
Train employees on key public health measures to prevent COVID-19. These workplace videos can help.
Regularly communicate and share credible and evidenced based information with employees and customers. Provide ongoing updates and let them know what you are doing to keep them healthy during the pandemic.
Support your employee’s mental health. Remind staff of their Employee and Family Assistance Program if your workplace has one. You can also share these Mental Health supports.
Develop a plan on what to do if a person who is sick visits or comes to work at your business.
Visit the Ontario government website for a full list of sector-specific guidelines for reopening. You can also go to these Ontario health and safety associations for more COVID-19 health and safety advice tailored to your workplace:
What if There is a Case of COVID-19 in My Workplace?
Employees/Co-workers
Anyone with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 must NOT go to work and should self-isolate at home. If contact with a positive case is confirmed, further directions will be provided by the Health Unit
Physical distancing rules at work mean employees should not be in close contact with each other. If an employee is identified as being a close contact of a co-worker who is confirmed or suspected of having COVID-19, the person should immediately take Ontario’s online COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to see what further care is needed. They can also call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. The employee may also be contacted by the Health Unit with further directions on what to do, including self-isolating or self-monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19.
Employers are strongly urged to support the COVID-19 instructions your employees have received from any health care provider. This protects the health of your workers and customers
Encourage everyone at work to continue following physical distancing rules (staying 2 metres or 6 feet apart from others) and regularly wash hands with soap and water
Continue to frequently clean and disinfect commonly touched or shared surfaces at work, including tools, equipment and workstations.
Follow direction from the Health Unit about any extra precautions that are needed to reduce the risk of illness. These directives can include: getting employees/staff who were in close contact with the customer/client to self-isolate or self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms, increasing cleaning and disinfecting at your workplace, and other measures
Continue to keep employees and customers safe:
Follow provincial rules that specify how your business/workplace can operate (for example, only offer curbside pickup, limit number of people in store, etc.).
Ensure a 2-metre (6-foot) distance is kept between people.
Reduce overcrowding.
Increase your online or phone services
Offer curb-side delivery
Make hand sanitizer available for customers at entry and exit points.
Cleaning and disinfecting public spaces is essential to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect people in the community. The following information provides guidance on cleaning and disinfection of public spaces and workplaces in Ontario. What you should know Commonly used cleaners and disinfectants are effective against COVID-19. Click here ... Read More
Know your rights as an employee when it comes to health and safety during COVID-19. Resources/Legislation All levels of governments are taking steps to support/protect people affected by coronavirus. The following resources can help you understand your rights. (Information is current at the time of this posting; please check official ... Read More
No matter where and how you work, it's important to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As an employer, it rests with you to ensure all preventive measures are being followed. Carefully review the specific guidelines to reopen your business during COVID-19 and read on for further recommendations/resources ... Read More
Protect yourself, your staff and customers from COVID-19. Here's what to do: Provide hand sanitizer and tissues at all entrances and work stations Encourage employees to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.Encourage everyone at work ... Read More
Wearing face coverings is another important way to reduce the risk of COVID-19. That's why it’s important to know when and how to properly wear a mask. Please Note: The Health Unit is directing that non-medical masks or face coverings MUST be used within indoor public spaces in City of ... Read More
Keep your distance at work to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here's what to do to practise physical distancing at work: Staff and customers MUST maintain a distance of two metres (six feet) wherever possible. Offer alternatives to customers such as delivery or pick up services. Consider partnering with ... Read More
Download and print resources below: Protect Yourself and OthersPoster Wear a Mask or Face CoveringPoster COVID-19 Screening Tool for Clients Poster Wear a Mask with ExemptionsPoster When to Wear Masks in a RestaurantPoster COVID-19 Screening Tool for Employees Poster As business and retail stores reopenPoster Tips for choosing a non-medical ... Read More
NOTE: If working during COVID-19, be aware of Employee Health and Safety considerations. On This Page Who Can Reopen?Common Health and Safety Measures to FollowPhysical DistancingScreeningCleaning and DisinfectingHand Hygiene and Respiratory EtiquetteNon-Medical Masks and Face CoveringsWhat if There is a COVID-19 Case at Work?Information/Resources for Specific Businesses to ReopenHealth Unit ... Read More
Watch these videos for tips on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace. From the HKPR Youtube Channel Visit us on Youtube for more videos, or click here for general COVID-19 prevention videos. https://www.youtube.com/embed?listType=playlist&list=PLI8pY9jU_hwt0WaXB02KIcZxCvFiH22zx&v=F_bf4Jv-lFs&layout=gallery ... Read More
Stay Connected
You can find and follow updates on COVID-19 in your local community via the following HKPR resources:
