THUNDER BAY – Premier Ford has announced that the York region will move to a modified Stage Two on Monday. Ottawa, Toronto, and Peel region are already under the lockdown restrictions.
During his media availability today, Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated, “Effective Monday morning at 12:01 a.m. York Region will move into a modified version of Stage 2 for a period of 28 days. My friends, this was not an easy decision to make. I know this will be very, very difficult for many people to hear.”
Ontario reported an added 712 cases of the virus today.
The decision to move to a modified stage two means that gyms, indoor dining rooms, and movie theatres will be closed.
The expanded Stage Two areas include Markham, Vaughan and Richmond Hill.
STATEMENT – York Region to move to modified Stage 2 on Monday at 12:01AM. #Covid19 #topoli #onpoli pic.twitter.com/1NHn9MghJf
— Mayor Frank Scarpitti (@frankscarpitti) October 16, 2020
The message is very clear. Take COVID-19 seriously. The impact of this decision on those communities and regions are ones that nobody wanted. They came after repeated instances of house parties, large gatherings, and warnings from health officials and the Premier.
It is a case where the minority are impacting the majority.
The surge in COVID-19 numbers surrounding Western Ontario is a concern and should mean enhanced vigilance in our region. We are seeing increased numbers west of Ontario as Manitoba surges. Manitoba reports 75 new COVID-19 cases, 63 of those cases are in the City of Winnipeg.
Manitoba health officials are expected to announce new restrictions later today. The province is working hard to stem those growing numbers.
For Thunder Bay, the numbers bear taking note.
All it would take is for a small surge in our city, and we could be easily back under a modified lockdown. The impact on our economy would be severe.
The easiest ways to make sure our region remains open is to simply follow the recommendations from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.
There are reports of groups seeking to find ways to cut back travel from southern Ontario, and potentially Manitoba. It is not known if those efforts will gain the needed political support to happen.
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
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- To prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
- Wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Stay home if you feel unwell.
- If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
