The Province of Ontario announced today it is moving Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health into the Orange-Restrict level following its assessment of local trends in key public health indicators.
This takes effect on Monday, December 21 at 12:01 am and will stay in that level for a minimum of 28 days, or two COVID-19 incubation periods. The province will continue to monitor key public health indicators across the province to determine if public health units should stay where they are or be moved into a different level.
Measures to be instituted due to the higher level include limited hours of operations for certain settings, limits on the hours for sale at food and drink establishments, limits on the number of individuals permitted in certain settings and required screening of patrons to establishments.
“We are facing a critical time in the fight against this virus with the move to orange-restrict coming during the holiday season,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “We are relying on the residents, businesses, services, and workplaces in KFL&A to follow these new regulations to limit the spread of COVID-19 in their settings. It is in our hands to protect our communities, and to prevent further restrictions at levels beyond orange.”
“It is crucial that we continue to support each other, work together, and stay vigilant—staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others especially those individuals at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 (e.g., older adults and other vulnerable populations),” added Dr. Moore.
Businesses can find out what changes the Orange-Restrict level may apply to them by reading the COVID-19 Response Framework. Thos with concerns regarding COVID-19 restrictions and safety plans can contact the Stop the Spread business information line at 1-888-444-3659.
The City provided additional information on how to help ensure residents keep the holiday season and celebrations safe, including:
- Limit in-person social interactions to people within your household
- Gather and host events virtually as it is the safest way to visit or celebrate occasions with people outside your household
- Stay home if you have symptoms of illness
- Limit travelling outside of KFL&A region to only essential travel
- Continue to practice good hand hygiene
What to do if you suspect you may be at risk
