COVID-19 Update

November 3

The flu season has begun, and the annual influenza vaccine (flu shot) is available to all residents six-months and older. The flu shot is safe and protects residents from the influenza virus which causes a contagious respiratory illness.

The Durham Region Flu Tracker shows that there has been an increase in local flu activity. The Flu Tracker provides a weekly summary of laboratory confirmed influenza cases in Durham Region. There may be a lot more flu activity in the community than is reported on the Flu Tracker, because infected individuals may not seek medical care or testing guidelines may not indicate a need for laboratory testing. Case numbers already show that there will likely be a lot more flu activity this season than in the previous season. During the 2021 to 2022 season, there were 84 confirmed influenza cases and 47 hospitalizations in the region. So far this fall, as of October 31, there have been 65 confirmed cases of influenza locally.

In addition to the flu, COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community. The flu shot can help to reduce your chances of being infected with COVID-19 and the flu at the same time, which could lead to more serious complications. By getting the flu shot, individuals will help to protect themselves and others, including the community’s most vulnerable populations. Do not delay getting your flu shot to wait for a particular brand of vaccine. All available influenza vaccine products protect against the flu – the most important thing is for eligible individuals to be vaccinated.

Residents who have not had a COVID-19 vaccine within the last six months are also reminded to get their COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible as the flu shot does not protect against COVID-19. The flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses and one vaccine will not protect against both viruses.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends individuals five and older may receive COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, before, or after other vaccines; this includes live, non-live, adjuvanted, and non-adjuvanted vaccines. It is recommended that children between six-months and under five-years old wait 14 days between the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines.

If you are experiencing any symptoms, including minor symptoms such as a sore throat or runny nose, please postpone your flu shot until you have recovered to help prevent illness spread. It is strongly advised that individuals with suspected, probable, or confirmed COVID-19, and those who are close contacts of a confirmed case of COVID-19, do not attend flu shot appointments or clinics to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

There are over 300 locations in Durham Region offering the flu shot, including health care providers and walk-in clinics. Local pharmacies can provide the flu shot for individuals two-years and older, including individuals with no Ontario health card. The Health Department will offer flu shots for individuals between six-months and two-years old who are unable to access a health care provider. Please contact Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729 for more details. For more information about the flu or the flu vaccine, visit durham.ca/flu.

Please protect yourself and others against the flu by getting your flu shot as soon as possible. The best way to stop the flu is by getting your flu shot every year.

September 26

Please join me in thanking our environmental public health professionals for their ongoing efforts to protect the health of our community as we celebrate Environmental Public Health Week, September 26 to October 2. This year’s theme is “Strength through Collaboration”, recognizing the collective work of environmental public health professionals and allied partners to control disease, address issues related to health hazards and injury, and helping to ensure community members stay safe.

The important work of the Health Department’s Health Protection Division, which includes public health inspectors, specialists and tobacco enforcement officers, helps to keep our community healthy. Their work is science-based, often unseen as it is mostly done behind the scenes, and proactive to prevent problems before they happen. They inspect food premises, recreational water facilities, childcare settings, personal service settings, sewage systems, drinking water systems, and tobacco and vapour product retailers. They investigate health hazards and infectious diseases, implement important programs to prevent disease (e.g., West Nile virus surveillance), manage infectious disease outbreaks and provide education. The Health Department’s public health inspectors, specialists and tobacco enforcement officers have not only been integral to COVID-19 response throughout the pandemic, but they have been working very hard to resume regular programs while continuing to manage COVID-19 outbreaks.

I encourage residents to learn more about the important work of our environmental public health professionals at durham.ca/Health. Residents can review the results of inspections of local facilities/premises at durham.ca/CheckAndGo.

Thank you to all staff of the Health Department’s Health Protection Division for your commitment to keeping our community safe.

September 12

On September 12, the Ontario government announced that the bivalent COVID-19 booster dose is available to all Ontarians aged 18 and over, beginning with the most vulnerable populations. In alignment with the provincial announcement, beginning September 12 the Health Department is offering the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster to vulnerable populations including:

• Residents of long-term care homes and congregate living settings
• Adults 70 and older
• Healthcare workers
• First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals 18 and older
• Immunocompromised individuals 12 and older
• Pregnant individuals.

The general population, including all adults 18 and older will be eligible to receive the bivalent vaccine booster dose beginning September 26. All previously booked booster appointments from September 12 to 25 will be honoured and, if available, the bivalent vaccine will be offered.

Eligible individuals are encouraged to get their bivalent booster dose 168 days (six months) following a previous COVID-19 vaccine dose or previous COVID-19 infection. An interval of 168 days (six months) is recommended as it may provide a better immune response. Eligible individuals may receive the vaccine at an interval of 84 days (three months) following a previous dose, if they choose. Please visit durham.ca/COVIDVaccines for information.

Health Canada has determined that the Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective. It has shown to trigger a strong immune response against the Omicron (BA.1) variant and the original SARS-CoV-2 virus strain, as well as a good immune response against the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.

An increase in respiratory illness spread is expected in the fall and winter months. I encourage eligible individuals to get their booster dose to protect themselves and others from serious illness.

To book an appointment and for a list of clinics and hours of operation, please visit durham.ca/VaccineAppointment or call 1-888-444-5113.

Residents can receive bivalent vaccine at pharmacies, select health care providers, pop-up clinics, and community immunization clinics. For additional places to get vaccinated, please visit durham.ca/WhereToGetVaccinated.

September 1

On August 31, the Ontario government announced that parents and caregivers of children aged five to 11-years old can book an appointment for a paediatric COVID-19 booster dose as of September 1. In line with the provincial announcement, the Health Department has now opened appointment bookings for individuals five to 11-years old to receive a booster dose 168 days (or six months) after they have finished their primary COVID-19 vaccine series. As schools will be reopening next week and the fall season also brings greater spread of respiratory illnesses, it is important that residents take actions to protect themselves and their loved ones. Making sure that immunizations are up to date is one way that can help to minimize illness spread. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, visit durham.ca/covidvaccines. To book an appointment and for clinic locations and hours, please visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113.

On August 31, the province also shared updates to guidance for individuals who test positive for COVID-19, have symptoms, or are close contacts of those that have tested positive for COVID-19. While there is no longer a minimum five-day self-isolation period for those who test positive for or have symptoms of COVID-19, the guidance continues to be to stay home when you are sick. If you have symptoms, even if you test negative for COVID-19, you should not go to school, work, social events and public settings until your fever is gone and symptoms are improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours if you have gastrointestinal symptoms). Residents are also advised to wear a mask for 10 days after symptom onset when in public settings (including school and work) and avoid non-essential activities where mask removal is necessary (e.g., dining out, playing wind instruments, high contact sports where masks cannot be safely worn). To protect vulnerable individuals, please refrain from visiting anyone who is immunocompromised or at higher risk of illness (e.g., seniors), and avoid non-essential visits to hospitals or long-term care homes for at least 10 days after symptom onset. Asymptomatic individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and asymptomatic close contacts of positive cases are not required to self-isolate but are advised to take precautions to protect others and limit the potential exposure to COVID-19, including wearing a well-fitted mask in all public settings and avoiding non-essential visits to highest risk settings and those that are immunocompromised for 10 days after the positive test result or the last exposure to the COVID-19 positive case. For more information about what to do if you have symptoms or if you have been exposed to someone positive for COVID-19, please visit durham.ca/covidinfohub.

As cooler temperatures are approaching and more people will begin to gather indoors in the coming months, I encourage everyone to practise public health precautions that will help to keep you and others healthy through the fall and upcoming winter. Basic public health measures such as good hand hygiene, immunization, staying home when sick and wearing a mask when required remain key to minimizing illness spread in our community.

July 21

On July 21, the Ontario government announced that parents and guardians of children six-months to under five-years old will be able to book an appointment for the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine as of Thursday, July 28. In line with the announcement from the province, the Health Department opened bookings for the paediatric Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for this age group as of 8 a.m. on July 28. Health Canada authorized the use of Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for children six-months to five-years old on July 14; this is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for this age group.

The COVID-19 paediatric Moderna Spikevax dose for children six-months to under five-years old is administered in a two-dose series. Children must be at least six-months old at the time of immunization. The recommended interval between the two doses is eight weeks (56 days). Information about vaccine safety for this age group is available on the Government of Canada website. Residents are also encouraged to speak to their health care provider if they have questions about the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine or they can contact the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service.

In addition, starting on July 28, youth 12 to 17-years old who are moderately to severely immunocompromised who have received a three-dose primary series, are eligible for a second booster dose (fifth dose) of Pfizer Comirnaty vaccine. The interval for a second booster dose for this age group is recommended at 168 days (six months) after the first booster dose (fourth dose).

To book an appointment and for clinic locations and hours, please visit durham.ca/VaccineAppointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Appointments are required for COVID-19 vaccines for children six-months to under five-years old and for immunocompromised individuals 12 to 17-years old. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region, visit durham.ca/COVIDVaccines.

July 14

On July 14, the Ontario government expanded eligibility for a fourth dose (second booster dose) of COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 18 and older. Eligible residents can now book appointments at community immunization clinics for their second booster dose by visiting durham.ca/vaccineappointment. No walk-ins will be available for second booster doses. Vaccines provided will be Pfizer Comirnaty BioNTech and Moderna Spikevax.

Eligible residents can receive their second booster dose 140 days (five months) after receiving their first booster dose. Residents can receive their second booster dose at participating pharmacies and health care providers administering COVID-19 vaccine and at Durham Region community immunization clinics. Individuals may choose to receive a second booster dose at a minimum of 84 days (three months) after their first booster with informed consent.

If you have had a recent COVID-19 infection, it is recommended to wait three months after symptoms started or after testing positive to receive your first or second booster dose.

The Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health has confirmed that we are now in the seventh wave of the pandemic. Locally, COVID-19 wastewater signals and outbreak data have shown increased disease activity over the past few weeks. Evidence is emerging that vaccine effectiveness against infection and COVID-19 disease decreases with time; booster doses provide an added layer of protection against severe illness and hospitalization from COVID-19, particularly for individuals who are at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19.

I encourage residents who are at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19 to get their first and second booster doses as soon as they become eligible. Groups at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19 include:

• Individuals 60 and older.
• First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members (18 and older).
• Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, or elder care lodges, and older adults living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services.
• Individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised.

To book an appointment and for clinic locations and hours, please visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. For more information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region, visit durham.ca/covidvaccines. Individuals who have questions about whether a second booster dose is right for them should speak to their health care provider.

In addition to vaccination, I encourage residents to continue to take steps to protect themselves and minimize the impact of the seventh wave, including gathering outdoors when possible, staying home when sick, even if symptoms are mild and considering wearing a mask in indoor crowded settings, particularly if spending time with more vulnerable residents.

June 13

On June 8 the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health released a statement about the lifting of mask requirements. Most provincial masking requirements were lifted on June 11, 2022, including masking requirements on public transit. Masks are still required in long-term care and retirement homes. Masking is also required for individuals positive for COVID-19, close contacts, or household members of cases of COVID-19. Please visit durham.ca/covidinfohub and durham.ca/masks for more information. Masking is recommended in higher risk congregate living settings, such as shelters and group homes. Organizations may implement their own masking policies.

While COVID-19 trend-data have shown improvements over the past several weeks, residents should remain vigilant to support a further decrease in illness spread across the Region. Throughout the pandemic, masks have helped us protect each other from getting ill. Even though masks are no longer required in indoor public settings, wearing a mask is an additional public health measure that may prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the community. The Health Department encourages area residents to continue to wear a mask in shared indoor spaces – especially when unable to maintain six feet apart. The risk of infection and severe disease is more serious for some individuals, especially individuals who are immune compromised, individuals with underlying health conditions and older adults. Wearing a mask continues to be an effective public health measure for reducing the spread of COVID-19. Residents should consider their own personal risk, as well as the risk of vulnerable individuals they may live with, when deciding whether to wear a mask. As well, individuals who may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines or COVID-19 booster doses are encouraged to consider continuing to wear a mask for an added layer of protection in shared indoor spaces.

Masks will continue to be required in all Health Department clinics, including community immunization clinics. If visitors do not have a mask when entering the facility, Health Department staff will provide one on-site. This added layer of protection will help to protect clients and staff.

It remains important to stay home when sick, get vaccinated and get your booster when eligible. Please continue to support each other and be respectful of the choices residents make to protect themselves and others. Thank you for your ongoing efforts to keep each other healthy and safe.

June 9

I am pleased to share that the Health Neighbourhoods Release 4 is now live on durham.ca. The Health Neighbourhoods resource provides information about the demographics and health of Durham Region communities. Health Neighbourhoods was first released in 2015 and provided data for 62 indicators in 50 Health Neighbourhoods to better understand patterns of health in local communities. Seven priority neighbourhoods were identified which are communities that require focus to build on health and well-being and have the lowest income levels in Durham Region. This information has been an important resource for community partners, the public, local organizations, and municipalities as many factors influence health and well-being; we all need to work together to improve the health of Durham Region residents.

Health Neighbourhoods Release 4 includes updated information, new indicators and interactive dashboards that make it easier to find the information that interests you. The latest release features:

• New online dashboard for indicator summaries and neighbourhood profiles.
• An updated map viewer platform.
• Ninety-six indicators for 50 Health Neighbourhoods including 20 new indicators.
• Sixty-six indicators with time comparisons.
• Thirty-three socio-demographic indicators updated with 2016 census data.
• A Durham Region Health Profile Report with data for all indicators and time periods as well as comparisons to Ontario.
• Options to download the data using Durham Region’s Open Data site.

This release, initially planned for May 2020, was delayed due to the Health Department’s COVID-19 pandemic response efforts. While COVID-19 response activities, including case and contact management, outbreak management and vaccine administration continue, Health Department staff is working to restore programs and focus efforts on activities that have been suspended during the pandemic.

Health Neighbourhoods is a constantly evolving project that continues to grow and improve. Staff will continue to increase awareness, update data when available, create new reports and provide new resources to support knowledge sharing. If you have any questions about Health Neighbourhoods, please email the Health Department or call 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.

May 25

May 22 to May 29 is Paramedic Services Week. This event provides an opportunity to recognize the important role that Region of Durham Paramedic Services (RDPS) plays in keeping our community safe and healthy. RDPS is one of the largest services in Ontario, with more than 400 full and part-time staff working to support the health and well-being of area residents. Throughout the pandemic, paramedics not only continued to save lives, respond to urgent health care needs and provide much needed health supports in the community to help keep residents out of hospital, but they were also integral to the Health Department’s COVID-19 response efforts. Everyday, the Region’s paramedics and those who work behind the scenes to support them, including RDPS management, administration and community partners, continue to demonstrate adaptability, compassion, leadership, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to keeping residents safe and healthy.

This year’s theme for Paramedic Services Week is “Faces of Paramedicine”, celebrating the many people who are involved in delivering out-of-hospital care in both acute and non-acute environments. Out-of-hospital emergency health care and response involves a multi-disciplinary community of emergency health providers working together to respond to calls for service. Please follow @DurhamParamedic on Twitter throughout the week to learn about the various roles involved in delivering paramedic care.

Our primary care paramedics and advanced care paramedics often put themselves at risk to respond to emergencies and provide the highest quality care to others. Thank you to RDPS staff for its service to area residents and ongoing commitment to keep our community healthy and safe.

May 11

May 9 to May 15 is National Nursing Week, which provides an opportunity to increase awareness of the important role that nurses have in supporting the health and well-being of area residents. Throughout the pandemic, the Health Department’s nurses who work in public health have been involved in all aspects of pandemic response including case and contact management and COVID-19 vaccination. I acknowledge the unwavering commitment, care, compassion, and expertise that nurses who work in public health continue to show everyday. The pandemic has been very hard for all of us, including our nurses who have worked tirelessly to support residents to manage illness and protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19. Despite having experienced physical and mental exhaustion throughout the pandemic, the Health Department’s nurses continue to work everyday to improve the health of residents and prevent illness in our community.

The theme of National Nursing Week this year is #WeAnswerTheCall, which was developed by the Canadian Nurses Association to showcase the many roles that nurses play in a patient’s health-care journey. Thank you to all the Health Department nurses that have answered the call throughout the pandemic and continue to do so everyday to support the health and well-being of area residents.

As we now work towards restoring core Health Department programs and services, I know that the nurses who work in public health are looking forward to responding to the public health needs of area residents and delivering the programs and services that they are passionate about. As key members of the Health Department team, I am grateful to our nurses who play a fundamental role in keeping our community healthy.

April 7

The Health Department has expanded the eligibility for fourth doses of COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 60 and older, as well as First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and older, as announced by the province. Eligible Durham Region residents can now book appointments for a fourth dose; appointments will be available starting on April 8. It is recommended that eligible individuals receive a fourth dose at an interval of 140 days (five months) following their third dose. A fourth dose may be administered at a minimum of 84 days (three months) following a third dose. Evidence indicates a longer interval between doses provides an improved immune response. If you have had a recent COVID-19 infection, it is recommended to wait three months after symptoms started or after testing positive to receive your fourth dose. With COVID-19 activity on the rise and a recent increase in COVID-19 related hospitalizations, a fourth dose can provide an additional layer of protection against COVID-19. Residents are encouraged to book an appointment to receive their fourth dose when they are eligible. Appointments can be booked at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. Walk-ins are not available for fourth doses.

In addition to getting a fourth dose when eligible, I strongly recommend that residents continue to wear a well-fitted three-layer mask in shared indoor spaces. Case counts and wastewater signals indicate that COVID-19 is spreading in our community. The BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron is now the dominant strain circulating in Ontario and it is more transmissible than the previous Omicron sub-variant (BA.1). The risk of infection and severe disease is more serious for some individuals, especially individuals who are immune compromised, individuals with underlying health conditions and older adults. Masking can help to protect yourself as well as vulnerable individuals who you may come in contact with. Public health measures such as masking, physical distancing, proper hand hygiene, and staying home when sick continue to be effective public health measures for reducing the spread of COVID-19. Please visit durham.ca/masks for more information on current masking requirements and recommendations. Please visit durham.ca/covidinfohub for more information on when to mask if you have tested positive for COVID-19 or if you are a close contact or household member of someone who has tested positive.

The Health Department remains committed to providing accurate and up to date information to help residents remain informed through the ongoing pandemic. On April 2, 2020, the Health Department launched the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker, which was just one page at the time. Over the past two years, the Data Tracker has grown significantly and has become a tool that many community partners and residents depend on for up to date information about the status of COVID-19 in the region. Health Department staff continuously review and update information on the Data Tracker to ensure that area residents receive accurate and important COVID-19 data. The Data Tracker has recently been streamlined to remove information that is no longer accurate, available, or relevant. Going forward, the Data Tracker will be updated Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, excluding statutory holidays, to allow staff to turn their attention to other important public health assessment and surveillance activities that were previously suspended due to the pandemic. The Health Department will continue to evaluate and adapt the Data Tracker to provide important new information and address community needs, while balancing the need to address other public health priorities.

As we look forward to enjoying milder temperatures and spring like conditions, residents are reminded that outdoor activities and outdoor gatherings are generally safer than indoor gatherings. Finding opportunities to spend time with family and friends outdoors is a great way to ensure your gathering or event is as safe as possible.

March 30

While most public health measures have been lifted and residents are enjoying a return to a new normal, COVID-19 is still very much present and spreading in our community. It is important for residents to keep informed and remain vigilant so you can keep yourself and your loved ones protected. As testing is only available for eligible populations, one way to be aware of COVID-19 activity in the community is by monitoring wastewater surveillance trends. Wastewater surveillance trend data is available on the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker and shows that the COVID-19 viral signal is increasing.

The risk of infection and severe disease is more serious for some individuals, especially those with underlying health conditions and older adults. Wearing a mask continues to be an effective public health measure for reducing the spread of COVID-19. While masking is not required in most settings, I encourage residents to continue to wear a mask in shared indoor spaces with people outside of your immediate household or in places where physical distancing may be difficult. Residents should consider their own personal risk, as well as the risk of vulnerable individuals they may live with, when deciding whether to wear a mask. Masks are still required on public transit, in long-term care homes, retirement homes, health care settings, shelters, congregate care and living settings, and for cases, close contacts or household members of cases. Please visit durham.ca/masks for more information on current requirements, when to consider wearing a mask and how to choose a mask. Please visit durham.ca/covidinfohub for more information on when to mask if you have tested positive for COVID-19 or if you are a close contact or household member of someone who has tested positive.

The Health Department continues to offer opportunities to get vaccinated at community immunization clinics and it is not too late to be vaccinated. Residents are encouraged to get their first, second and booster doses to protect themselves and others from severe illness. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccine for more information.

As the Health Department is working to restore programs and services that have been suspended during the pandemic, I will be reducing the frequency of my messages to area residents and turning some of my attention to other important public health issues. The Health Department continues to monitor COVID-19 activity, respond to COVID-19, and provide vaccinations. I remain committed to keeping residents informed and will post messages to communicate important information as needed. Please continue to visit durham.ca often to remain informed about COVID-19.

March 14

The province has continued to see key public health indicators improve or remain stable and, as a result, will be removing the mandatory masking requirement for most settings, including schools, on March 21. Masking requirements will remain on public transit, in health care settings, long-term care homes and congregate care settings. At the same time, schools and childcare settings will no longer be required to conduct on-site verification of screening of children, students, and staff.

To align with provincial direction, the Health Department’s instructions for all enclosed (indoor) public spaces and common areas of apartment buildings and condominiums regarding the use of masks will be removed on March 21 and, as such, masks will not be required in these settings.

While lifting remaining public health measures does not mean the risk of COVID-19 has been eliminated, it indicates that the province is ready to move to a longer-term approach to living with and managing COVID-19.

There continue to be new cases of COVID-19 daily and the virus is still circulating in our community. Masks have helped us protect each other from getting ill. Some in the community may choose to continue to wear masks in public settings for an added layer of protection, and it is recommended that vulnerable individuals at risk of serious illness from COVID-19 continue to wear masks in indoor public settings. Residents should consider their own personal risk, as well as the risk of vulnerable individuals they may live with, when deciding whether to wear a mask. The province will continue to provide free masks and personal protective equipment for staff and students who choose to wear them in both school and childcare settings.

Residents are advised to be prepared in case there is a surge in COVID-19 activity as the province may decide to bring back certain public health measures, such as masking requirements, to protect the health and safety of Ontarians.

Changes have also been made to the guidance related to isolation. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, please visit the Health Department’s COVID-19 Case and Contact Information Hub at durham.ca/covidinfohub or visit ontario.ca/exposed to determine what actions you should take. If you feel ill or are experiencing any symptoms, it remains important that you stay home and do not expose others to the risk of becoming ill. Even though schools and childcare settings will no longer be required to conduct verification of screening, parents should continue to screen their children for symptoms daily and keep them home if they are unwell. Please refer to durham.ca/covidinfohub or ontario.ca/exposed for details on how long individuals must isolate if they have symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19, as guidance depends on an individual’s health status, age and vaccination status.

As masking requirements in most settings will soon be lifted, I would like to emphasize once again the importance of getting vaccinated. There continues to be COVID-19 transmission throughout our community. Getting vaccinated is your best protection against serious illness from COVID-19 and hospitalization resulting from COVID-19. First, second and booster doses continue to be offered at Health Department clinics throughout Durham Region. In addition, residents can get vaccinated at participating pharmacies and through local healthcare providers offering COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccine for more information.

March 2

The province is continuing with its cautious and gradual lifting of public health restrictions related to COVID-19. Effective March 1, capacity limits in all remaining indoor public settings, physical distancing requirements and proof of vaccination are no longer mandated provincial public health measures. In addition, there are no limits on indoor or outdoor social gatherings, organized public events, or religious services, rites or ceremonies. Sector specific restrictions have also been lifted, including limits associated with dancing and singing, requirements to remain seated, active screening of patrons by various businesses, etc.

The province will continue to provide access to COVID-19 vaccine certificates with QR codes to support travel requirements and employer-led policies. Businesses and other settings may choose to continue to require proof of vaccination, subject to applicable laws.

There are some public health restrictions that remain in place. Individuals are still required to wear a mask that covers their nose, mouth and chin in indoor public settings. The province is currently reviewing masking requirements and will communicate a timeline to lift these measures at a later date. The Health Department will continue to support local businesses and organizations and when further information regarding masking requirements is received, we will follow provincial COVID-19 public health guidance. Businesses and organizations must continue to have a safety plan in place outlining how to protect staff and the public against COVID-19 within the facility. A copy of the safety plan must be posted at the facility and available upon request. Please visit durham.ca/novelcoronavirus and refer to the Ontario Roadmap Exit Step – All Businesses and Organizations guidance document for more information.

Residents are reminded that if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or if you are ill, you should stay home. There continues to be a risk of illness spread in our community. While the province continues to consider lifting remaining public health measures, we must keep working together to ensure a safe reopening of the economy and the safety of everyone in our community.

As restrictions continue to be lifted, it is still important for everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. Eligible residents are encouraged to receive their booster dose which offers better protection against COVID-19. It is equally important for children and youth five and older to receive their vaccine as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that schools and recreational spaces become safer places as more eligible children receive their first and second doses. First, second and booster doses continue to be offered at Health Department clinics throughout Durham Region. First and second doses are also available at school clinics at select area schools. In addition, residents can get vaccinated at participating pharmacies and through local healthcare providers offering COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccine for more information.

It has been a long and often challenging two years since the pandemic was first announced. Our collective efforts have allowed us to come this far in experiencing the improvements that we are now seeing. Thank you to all area residents for your commitment and dedication to ensuring that we continue to keep each other safe.

February 18

With ongoing improvement of key public health and health system indicators, the province is continuing to gradually ease public health restrictions. Locally, trend data show a steady decrease in daily cases over the past few weeks and eligible residents are continuing to receive their COVID-19 vaccine.

• Social gathering limits have increased to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
• Organized public events are limited to 50 people indoors, with no limit outdoors.
• Capacity limits have been removed in many indoor public settings where proof of vaccination is required (e.g., restaurants, bars, gyms, cinemas, meeting and event spaces, casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments, etc.).
• Fifty per cent of the usual seating capacity at sports arenas, concert venues and theatres is permitted.
• Indoor capacity limits are increased to 25 per cent in the remaining higher-risk settings where proof of vaccination is required (e.g., nightclubs, bathhouses, etc.).
• Indoor capacity limits are increased for indoor weddings, funerals and religious services, rites, or ceremonies to the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance.
• Capacity limits in other indoor public settings is limited to the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance (e.g., grocery stores, pharmacies, retail, and shopping malls).

• Lifting capacity limits in all remaining indoor public settings.
• Lifting proof of vaccination requirements in all settings. Businesses and other settings may choose to continue to require proof of vaccination.

Currently, masking requirements remain in place. The province will communicate a timeline to lift masking requirements at a later date.

Information and guidance to local businesses and residents has been updated at durham.ca/COVID-19Guidance to reflect the recent easing of restrictions. For additional information, residents may also refer to O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas at Step 3 and at the Roadmap Exit Step.

Please remember that some public health measures continue to remain in place to prevent the spread of illness. As outlined in provincial guidance documents, residents are still required to self-isolate if they have symptoms of COVID-19, test positive for COVID-19 or are a close contact of someone who tests positive for COVID-19. Please visit the COVID-19 Case and Contact Information Hub at durham.ca/covidinfohub for information on actions you must take to protect others from getting ill.

As of 8 a.m. Feb. 18, the Health Department has expanded the eligibility for booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine for youth 12 to 17-years old, as announced by the province. Individuals 12 to 17-years old will now be able to receive a third dose booster at least 168 days after they received their second dose of a two-dose primary series. In addition, youth 12 to 17-years old who are moderately to severely immunocompromised are recommended to receive a three-dose primary series and are eligible to receive a fourth dose booster at least 168 days after receiving their third dose. Appointments can be booked at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. Walk-ins are welcome.

A longer 168-day interval for the booster dose is recommended for this age group. This interval may be associated with a lower risk of myocarditis and pericarditis. With informed consent, all individuals 12 to 17-years old may receive a booster dose at a minimum of 84 days after completion of a primary COVID-19 vaccine series. Residents are encouraged to receive their booster dose as it offers better protection against the Omicron variant. Improved vaccination rates will help to prevent COVID-19 spread in our community as the province continues to ease restrictions.

First and second doses continue to be offered at Health Department community immunization clinics, children’s immunization clinics and school clinics at select schools. Residents can also get vaccinated at participating pharmacies and through local healthcare providers offering COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccine for more information.

As the province moves forward with easing restrictions, I encourage residents to continue with the public health measures that will help to limit the spread of COVID-19 including proper hand hygiene, wearing a mask, physical distancing, and remaining home when experiencing symptoms. Our collective actions will support the further easing of restrictions.

February 9

Over the past few months, the province has had to adapt to the Omicron variant which has led to changes in testing and case and contact management. These changes have impacted guidance and information for businesses and organizations to help them keep workplaces healthy and safe.

On Feb. 4, the Health Department’s Section 22 Class Order for workplaces, dated Nov. 23, 2020, and revised Jan. 13, 2022, was revoked to ensure alignment with provincial legislation. While some requirements remain in place, employers are no longer required to notify the Health Department when employees have tested positive for COVID-19 and they are not required to provide contact information of individuals who have tested positive. These changes relate to recent changes in provincial direction regarding the Health Department’s responsibilities with respect to outbreak and case and contact management. Please note that there is sector specific guidance for highest risk settings, schools and child care settings which may be different; operators of these settings should consult the information available to them.

Employers are still required to ensure public health measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in workplaces. Some of these measures include: wearing masks in indoor workplaces, including vehicles that are operating as part of the business or organization; active screening for employees and visitors; and the development and implementation of a COVID-19 workplace safety plan. For additional information, please refer to O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Step 3 and at the Roadmap Exit Step and other sector specific guidance documents and legislation. Updated advice and information are also available at durham.ca/covid-19guidance.

Employees are reminded to screen for symptoms daily. Employees who are experiencing symptoms should not go to work, should follow the advice provided in their screening tool and at covid-19.ontario.ca/exposed and inform their employer.

Under Ontario’s labour laws, employers must take precautions to protect the health and safety of workers, including protecting workers from hazards posed by infectious diseases. Employers are responsible for advising staff who may be close contacts and may have been exposed to COVID-19, however, employers should not share information that will identify employees experiencing symptoms or employees who have tested positive. Employers should refer to Screening for COVID-19: guidance for employers for additional information. Employees who may have been exposed to COVID-19 should refer to the guidance available at covid-19.ontario.ca/exposed or at durham.ca/covidinfohub.

It is essential that businesses and organizations continue to remain informed about their responsibilities and follow public health measures to keep workplaces safe. Your ongoing cooperation will help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community. For more information on COVID-19 in the workplace, including preventive measures, please visit durham.ca/covid-19guidance.

February 2

The Health Department has been vaccinating children five to 11-years old since November 2021. To date, more than 52 per cent of children have initiated their primary vaccine series (i.e., received at least one dose) and more than 20 per cent have completed their primary series. Improving vaccination coverage in this population will help to strengthen safety in schools and limit the spread of illness in the community as children return to in-person sports and recreational activities.

Vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect your child and family from COVID-19 and its variants. Vaccinating eligible children will also help to protect younger children in your family who may not yet be eligible for vaccine, or elderly vulnerable family members who are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill. While children and youth who get infected with COVID-19 typically experience mild symptoms, some children can get very sick from the virus and some may experience longer-term effects.

Health Canada has authorized a two-dose series of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine for children five to 11-years old, which is a distinct formulation at a lower dose designed specifically for the paediatric population. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends waiting eight weeks between the first and second dose. This recommendation is based on evidence in adults that suggests longer intervals between doses results in a stronger immune response and higher vaccine effectiveness. If your child is immunosuppressed due to disease or treatment, has serious health concerns, or a history of allergies to vaccines, please consult your health care provider to determine the best course of action.

Families may have several questions and concerns about the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine. There are many resources available for families to help them make informed decisions about vaccinating their children. If you are hesitant about vaccinating your children, please consult valid and reliable sources of information to understand the benefits and risks of the COVID-19 vaccine. Residents can:

• Talk to their health care providers.
• Refer to resources available at Ontario.ca/covidvaccinekids.
• Book an appointment to speak to a health care professional through the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service.
• Call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 to speak with an experienced agent or health specialist.
• Refer to the Vaccines for children: COVID-19 Government of Canada webpage.
• Refer to the Provincial COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Youth Fact Sheet.
• Visit durham.ca/covidvaccines for more information and additional resources.

Many appointments continue to be available at local children’s COVID-19 immunization clinics. For a listing of clinic locations and hours of operation, visit durham.ca/childrensclinics. Appointments can be booked at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. Walk-ins for first and second doses are currently being accepted, but booking an appointment is the best way to secure your vaccine. Children can also receive vaccine through select pharmacies and health care providers. To improve access to vaccines for children, the Health Department has begun to host school clinics in collaboration with local school boards. Currently, schools in communities with lower vaccine coverage rates are being prioritized. Families will be given advanced notice if there is an upcoming school clinic planned at their child’s school.

I encourage residents to consult the numerous resources available to them and remain informed about the public health measures that can help keep children and family members safe.

January 28

The province continues to monitor key public health and health system indicators to determine next steps in the fight against COVID-19. On January 20, with key indicators beginning to show signs of improvement, the province announced that it will cautiously and gradually ease public health restrictions beginning January 31.

Locally, vaccination rates continue to improve and the number of eligible residents who have received a booster dose is steadily increasing. Almost 50 per cent of adults 18 and over have received a primary series of COVID-19 vaccine and a booster. I am also pleased to share that more than 50 per cent of children five to 11-years old have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Improved vaccination rates will help to limit the spread of COVID-19 and will help support the province’s efforts to gradually ease restrictions. Please visit durham.ca/vaccinetracker for the latest vaccine coverage information.

Effective January 31, in the absence of concerning trends in public health and health care indicators, the province will begin lifting public health measures as follows:

• Social gathering limits will increase to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.
• Capacity at organized public events will increase to 25 people indoors.
• Capacity limits will be increased or maintained at 50 per cent in most indoor public settings (e.g., restaurants, gyms, cinemas, meeting and event spaces, museums, settings for religious services, rites, or ceremonies, etc.).
• Indoor spectator areas of facilities such as those used for sporting events, concert venues, and theatres can operate at 50 per cent seated capacity or 500 people, whichever is less.

Many restrictions will remain in place including:

• Proof of vaccination requirements continue to apply in existing settings.
• Singing and dancing in restaurants and bars will not be allowed except for workers or performers.
• Food or drink services are permitted at many establishments (e.g., indoor sporting events, concert venues, theatres and cinemas, bingo halls and other gaming establishments, etc.), provided patrons remain seated while consuming food or drink.
• The number of patrons permitted to be seated at a table in bars and restaurants, meeting and event spaces and other venues where food or drink is sold or served will be limited to 10 people.

Health Department staff is working to update information and guidance to local businesses and residents, which will be available in the next few days at durham.ca/COVID-19Guidance. For additional information, residents may also refer to the province’s updated plan to safely reopen Ontario available at https://covid-19.ontario.ca.

As the province begins to ease restrictions, I encourage residents to remain vigilant. Following public health measures including proper hand hygiene, wearing a mask, physical distancing, and remaining home when experiencing symptoms will continue to be very important as we work together to move past the latest wave of COVID-19, driven by the Omicron variant.

January 19

Local vaccine coverage data show that most Durham Region residents have been vaccinated against COVID-19 and are helping to protect themselves and their community from the risks of the virus. Thank you for doing your part to help keep each other safe.

As we continue to try to limit the spread of illness in the current wave of the pandemic, driven by the Omicron variant, I encourage all eligible residents to get their first, second or third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccination is our best protection and evidence shows that third/booster doses can substantially increase protection against the Omicron variant.

Either Moderna or Pfizer vaccine may be administered as a third dose regardless of which vaccine individuals received for their first and second doses. Mixing COVID-19 vaccines is safe, effective and enables residents to benefit from the protection of a booster dose sooner. Both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants, and residents are advised to get the vaccine that is available to them first.

Residents with questions about personal benefits of getting vaccinated or vaccine safety can access several helpful resources available at durham.ca/covidvaccines, the government of Canada’s Vaccines for COVID-19 web page and the province’s COVID-19 vaccine safety web page.

The Health Department continues to add appointments as soon as resources are secured. Durham Region residents can receive their vaccine at participating pharmacies, health care providers administering COVID-19 vaccine, and at Durham Region community immunization clinics. The Health Department is accepting walk-ins for first and second doses at its community immunization clinics, dependent on vaccine availability. For a list of clinics, hours of operation or to book an appointment, visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Appointments are also available through the provincial GO-VAXX COVID-19 vaccination clinics. Visit ontario.ca/page/go-vaxx-bus-schedule for information about provincial GO-VAXX COVID-19 vaccination clinics.

January 14

Earlier this week, the province confirmed that students who have been learning remotely since Jan. 5 will be returning to in-person learning on Jan. 17. In-person learning supports mental health and well-being, physical health, developmental health and learning for children and youth. To help support in-person learning, the Health Department has been working with schools and school boards throughout the pandemic to support implementation of measures that can help to improve safety for students in schools.

Due to the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant and changes in provincial guidance for testing and case and contact management, families can expect some changes when students return to schools next week. Please ensure to review information and instructions from schools and school boards about student screening, isolation requirements and masking. The Health Department is actively working to update information and guidance available on durham.ca to ensure that families have up to date information. Information is available on the Schools Reopening Toolkit site at durham.ca/schoolsreopening.

To ensure safety of our school communities, please monitor your children daily for symptoms of COVID-19 and complete the screening tool provided to you. If your child is experiencing symptoms, please do not send them to school and follow the instructions in the screening tool. In many cases, household members attending school (e.g., siblings) will also be required to remain home. Household members of students experiencing symptoms can only attend school if the symptomatic individual has only one of the following symptoms: runny nose/nasal congestion; headache; extreme fatigue; sore throat; muscle aches/joint pain; or gastrointestinal symptoms (i.e., vomiting or diarrhea).

Given the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant, it is important that students wear high quality masks that fit well and completely cover the nose, mouth and chin. Wearing a well-constructed, well-fitted mask in school can help contain the respiratory particles an individual releases and helps to reduce the amount of infectious respiratory particles one may breathe in. If residents plan to buy new/replacement masks, it is advised to look for 3-layered masks with woven cloth inside and outside and a non-woven, fibrous layer in between. Please visit durham.ca for more information about masks.

Vaccination of school staff and students continues to be one of the most important public health strategies to minimize risks and limit the spread of COVID-19. Vaccine appointments are available for children 5 to 11-years old at Health Department immunization clinics. Please visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113 to book an appointment for your child. Children can also receive vaccines through select pharmacies and health care providers administering vaccines to individuals five years of age and older. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines for more information.

Evidence shows that third/booster doses can substantially increase protection against the Omicron variant. School staff are encouraged to get their booster dose as soon as possible. In an effort to facilitate access to vaccines for school and childcare staff, the Health Department is keeping school boards and child care sites informed of current appointment availability. School and child care staff can also access appointments at provincial clinics operated through FH Health at fhvax.com/book-edu.

As public health experts, scientists and government officials learn more about the Omicron variant, guidance and instructions continue to evolve. Residents are encouraged to remain informed to limit the spread of COVID-19 and support a safe return to school for children, youth and school staff. Please visit durham.ca often and refer to the COVID-19 Case and Contact Information Hub at durham.ca/covidinfohub which provides information on what to do if you have symptoms, test positive, are a contact of someone who has tested positive, or when you are unsure if you should be tested.

January 7

In response to the surge of Omicron cases and increases in COVID-19 hospitalizations, the Ontario government has temporarily moved the province into Step 2 of its Roadmap to Reopen, with modifications that take into account successful vaccination efforts. Effective Jan. 5 and for at least 21 days, the restrictions articulated in O. Reg. 263/20: Rules for Areas in Step 2 will be in place. Additionally, all students in public and private schools have been moved to remote learning until Jan. 17, subject to public health trends and operational considerations. It is expected that the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant will impact all sectors and will result in staff absenteeism at many workplaces, including hospitals and schools. The province has also instructed hospitals to pause all non-emergency and non-urgent surgeries and procedures to preserve critical care and human resource capacity.

The public health measures announced by the Ontario government have been implemented to curb the transmission of COVID-19 and prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed. Some of the public health restrictions currently in place include: social gatherings are limited to five people indoors and 10 people outdoors; capacity is limited to 50 per cent of a room for indoor weddings, funerals and religious services, rites and ceremonies; retail settings (including shopping malls), personal care services, and public libraries may operate at 50 per cent capacity; indoor dining at restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments is closed; indoor concert venues, theatres and cinemas are closed; indoor sports and recreational fitness facilities, including gyms, are closed; and outdoor spaces remain open, with restrictions in place. The Health Department has updated its advice, information, and guidance documents to support businesses and workplaces with implementation of the latest restrictions. Please visit the COVID-19 Guidance and Advice for Businesses and Organizations at durham.ca/COVID-19Guidance for more information on restrictions and permitted activities.

In response to the rapid spike in COVID-19 cases, guidance has changed regarding testing and isolation. PCR testing is available for eligible residents at increased risk of severe outcomes and those living and working in highest risk settings. Most individuals experiencing symptoms or close contacts of positive cases do not need a COVID-19 test to confirm they have COVID-19. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you can assume you have the virus and that you are contagious. Residents experiencing COVID-19 symptoms are advised to self-isolate immediately and visit the Health Department’s COVID-19 Case and Contact Information Hub at durham.ca/covidinfohub for more information. Residents who have been exposed to an individual who is positive for COVID-19 or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can visit ontario.ca/exposed for information and instructions. Please continue to stay informed, follow instructions and work together to help limit the transmission of COVID-19 in our community.

December 31, 2021

On Dec. 21, the province advised the Health Department of a limited supply of Pfizer BioNTech (Comirnaty) vaccine across Canada. As a result, the Health Department will now be administering Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for first, second and third doses to individuals 30-plus until additional supply of Pfizer vaccine is secured.  Pfizer is recommended for individuals 12 to 17-years old for first and second doses, and for individuals 18 to 29-years old for first, second and third doses. This recommendation is due to lower reported rates of myocarditis/pericarditis following vaccination with Pfizer as compared to Moderna for these age groups. To ensure there is sufficient supply of Pfizer for individuals 12 to 29-years old, the Health Department is preserving its current supply of Pfizer vaccine for this population. Individuals 18 to 29-years old may receive Moderna vaccine upon request, if they provide informed consent. There continues to be enough supply of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine for children five to 11-years old.

Area residents are encouraged to get their third dose as an important protection measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Either Moderna or Pfizer vaccine may be administered as a third dose regardless of which vaccine individuals received for their first and second doses. Mixing COVID-19 vaccines is safe, effective and enables residents to benefit from the protection of a booster dose. Both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants, and residents are advised to get the vaccine that is available to them first.

Durham Region residents can receive their third dose at participating pharmacies, health care providers administering COVID-19 vaccine and at Durham Region community immunization clinics. The Health Department continues to add appointments as additional sites and staffing resources are secured. For a list of clinics, hours of operation or to book an appointment, visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Appointments are also available through the provincial GO-VAXX COVID-19 vaccination clinics. Visit www.ontario.ca/page/go-vaxx-bus-schedule for information about provincial GO-VAXX COVID-19 vaccination clinics. It is important to note that due to high demand for vaccines, walk-in opportunities are no longer available at Durham Region community vaccination clinics or through the provincial GO-VAXX COVID-19 clinics. Appointments are required at all clinics to receive vaccine.

The Health Department also has a limited supply of Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine. Janssen is a one-dose vaccine that is now available for individuals who have not received any COVID-19 vaccine to date. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) indicated that the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine is over 85 per cent effective at least 28 days after vaccination. Individuals must meet the following criteria to be eligible to receive a Janssen COVID-19 vaccine at a Health Department community immunization clinic:

• must be 18 years of age and older, and 
• have not received any COVID-19 vaccine dose to date.

Residents who want Janssen vaccine can call the Health Department at 1-888-444-5113 to book an appointment. Due to limited supply, online booking is not available for the Janssen vaccine. Additional information regarding the Janssen vaccine is available on the Ministry of Health’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet.  For more information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region, visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

December 22, 2021

The Omicron variant is spreading rapidly across Ontario as well as locally. Residents can refer to local data available on the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker. On December 17, the province announced additional measures to slow the spread of Omicron. Effective December 19, social gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors and capacity limits are reduced to 50 per cent for several indoor settings including restaurants, bars, personal care services, retailers (including grocery stores and pharmacies), indoor recreational amenities, etc. The province also announced restrictions regarding: the number of patrons allowed to be seated at a table in a restaurant or bar; the sale and consumption of alcohol as well as food and drink at large venues (e.g., sporting events, theatres and cinemas, casinos, etc.); dancing at venues; and operating hours for bars, restaurants, meeting and event spaces and strip clubs. For more information on restrictions and permitted activities, please refer to O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Step 3 and at the Roadmap Exit Step. Local business owners/operators and residents can refer to updated guidance documents and advice about the latest public health measures at www.durham.ca/reopeningtoolkit.

To limit transmission of the Omicron variant, there is an ongoing focus on vaccination including administration of third doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Evidence shows that third doses can substantially increase protection against the Omicron variant. As of December 20, all residents 18 and older are eligible to receive a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 84 days following the second dose. I am pleased to share that since December 13, the Health Department has added over 37,000 appointments for third/booster doses. Health Department staff continues to work very hard to increase capacity to administer vaccines to more residents every day. New appointments become available daily, as resources are secured. Thank you to residents for doing their part and trying to book an appointment for their vaccine. Due to the rapid expansion of eligibility for third doses, appointments may not be available immediately. Thank you for your patience as we actively work to increase capacity.

As local case numbers continue to increase at a rapid rate, residents that test positive for COVID-19 may experience delays in being contacted by public health staff. While waiting to receive a call and instructions, all individuals that test positive for COVID-19 must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. Due to the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant, household contacts of positive cases also need to stay home and isolate, regardless of their vaccination status.

The demand for COVID-19 testing is also increasing locally and there may be a delay in getting tested at a COVID-19 Assessment Centre and receiving results from the lab. If you are experiencing symptoms, please isolate from others while waiting to get tested and while waiting for your test results.

Thank you to residents for following public health measures and helping to limit the spread of COVID-19. I also would like to thank each Health Department staff member that continues to work tirelessly to protect the health and safety of Durham Region residents. Many staff members have adjusted their holiday plans to support increasing demands. Thank you to my staff for your ongoing commitment to respond to urgent health care needs, prevent illness spread and keep community members safe.

December 15, 2021

Over the past week, there has been a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in our community. While a number of these positive cases are still under investigation, there is a likely chance that many of them will be identified as positive for the Omicron variant. Public health leaders across the province are expressing concerns in response to the latest evidence which shows that Omicron is more transmissible than other variants of concern. There is also a greater risk of infection even if individuals are fully vaccinated. Modelling data show that Omicron will become the dominant strain of SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus) in the coming weeks. Provincial data is available through the COVID-19 Science Table and Public Health Ontario. Residents can refer to the Durham Region Data Tracker at www.durham.ca/covidcases to see the number of daily local confirmed Omicron cases.

In response to the increasing spread of Omicron, the province announced additional public health measures on December 10, including proof of vaccination requirements for youth ages 12 to 17 that participate in organized sports at recreational facilities. On December 14, I issued revised instructions to owners, operators and persons responsible for indoor areas of facilities used for organized sports and recreational fitness activities, in alignment with provincial direction. Effective December 20, individuals 12 to 17 and those who coach, teach, volunteer and/or officiate at organized sports or recreational fitness activities will be required to provide proof of vaccination or a valid exemption upon entry to applicable facilities. Please review the letter of instruction and learn how the instructions may impact you.

The Health Department continues to prioritize the health and safety of residents and is taking measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Families may be having to manage children and youth at home resulting from dismissed classrooms and school/childcare centre closures. In response to the increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant, the Health Department is taking a cautious approach when assessing risks to students, teachers and those in our school communities. Recently, several outbreaks have been declared in local schools and unfortunately, we have had to make difficult decisions to temporarily close schools where there were serious concerns about the risk of illness spread. These decisions, which are made in collaboration with local schools and school boards, are never taken lightly and many factors are considered. Through the case and contact management process in a school setting, staff assesses the: number of positive cases; probability that there is COVID-19 transmission in a school setting; risk of further COVID-19 transmission in a school setting; and populations at greatest risk. When staff has identified that there is a significant risk to a school population, further action is taken in collaboration with the affected school to protect the health and safety of those at risk. A school closure helps to prevent further spread of COVID-19 within the facility.

At this time, to protect the most vulnerable residents in our community, I urge everyone to remain vigilant and consider the safety and risks associated with your activities and your upcoming plans over the holidays. Residents are encouraged to: get vaccinated; get a third dose as soon as possible, if eligible; practice physical distancing; wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge; always practice proper hand hygiene; reconsider attending large gatherings and high-risk events; continue to screen themselves and their children for symptoms of COVID-19; and remain home when experiencing any symptoms. Individuals that are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19. Public health measures in combination with vaccination will help to reduce transmission of COVID-19.

December 10, 2021

Given the steady increase in COVID-19 cases in youth between the ages of 12 and 17, the number of COVID-19 cases associated with indoor organized sports, and the new Omicron variant, additional public health measures are required in facilities where organized sports are played and/or practiced. Organized sports include indoor training, practices, games and competitions, and include activities such as participating in sports leagues, dance classes, martial arts, swimming classes, etc.

To protect the health and well-being of residents, on December 8, following consultation with the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, I issued instructions to all owners, operators and persons responsible for indoor areas of facilities used for organized sports and recreational fitness activities. The instructions require owners and operators of these facilities to implement and enforce proof of vaccination policies requiring:

• Coaches, teachers, instructors, individuals officiating at organized sports and volunteers to provide proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or proof of a valid medical exemption.
• Participants of organized sports and/or recreational fitness activities, that are 12 to 17 years old, to provide proof of vaccination or a valid exemption.

The policy requirement comes into effect on January 4, 2022. A phased approach is articulated in the instructions, providing time for youth to get fully vaccinated. Individuals and corporations that do not comply with the instructions may be fined, pursuant to the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020.

Activities related to organized sports have the potential to enhance COVID-19 transmission. Specifically, close contact, forceful exhalation, prolonged exposure, crowded indoor spaces and the absence of masks and face coverings during physical activity, contribute to enhanced likelihood of COVID-19 transmission. Verifying proof of vaccination in facilities where organized sports are played and/or practiced will strengthen protections in the community by helping curb the spread of COVID-19.

Please continue to stay informed, read the letter of instruction and learn how the instructions may impact you.

December 8, 2021

As announced by the Province on December 2, beginning December 13 at 8 a.m. Durham Region residents 50 and older (born in 1971 or earlier) are eligible to receive a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible individuals can receive a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine at a minimum of 168 days after receiving their second dose. Booster doses are being accelerated for this population to provide an extra layer of protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

In addition, the Province announced that individuals receiving dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) are eligible to receive a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine 56 days after their second dose due to a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Individuals receiving dialysis can be referred to Lakeridge Health for their third dose by their health care provider. The referral form is available via www.lakeridgehealth.on.ca on the COVID-19 information page.

Also, the Ontario government recommends individuals be re-vaccinated with a new COVID-19 vaccine primary series after receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT), hematopoietic cell transplants (HCT) (autologous or allogeneic), or CAR-T-cell therapy. Re-vaccination of these individuals is recommended due to the loss of immunity following therapy or transplant. Decisions regarding the timing for re-vaccination should be made on a case-by-case basis. Individuals eligible for re-vaccination should consult their medical team for further information.

There are many options for eligible Durham Region residents to receive their third dose, including Durham Region community immunization clinics, participating pharmacies, and health care providers administering COVID-19 vaccine.

Residents 50 and older (born in 1971 or earlier) can begin booking third dose appointments at Durham Region community immunization clinics on December 13. Eligible residents can also attend upcoming pop-up and mobile walk-in immunization clinics to receive their third dose. For a list of clinics, hours of operation or to book an appointment visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113.

As it is the holiday season and residents are spending more time with family and friends, being fully vaccinated, and getting a third dose when you are eligible will help to protect yourself and your loved ones. In addition to being vaccinated, there are public health measures that residents can practice to reduce risks when observing holiday celebrations. If you plan on hosting a social gathering during the holidays, please visit www.durham.ca/novelcoronavirus for information on current restrictions and guidance about COVID-19 and social gatherings.

December 1, 2021

The World Health Organization designated the Omicron variant as a variant of concern (VOC) on November 26, 2021. VOCs are mutations in SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus) that may make the virus more transmissible, virulent and/or may decrease vaccine efficacy. While the situation is fluid, at this time, four cases of the Omicron variant have been confirmed in Ontario. Currently, there is limited knowledge about this new variant which is being monitored and evaluated to determine if it is more transmissible, leads to more severe illness or hospitalizations, and decreases the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines.

The Omicron variant was first detected in South Africa; as its impacts are being evaluated around the globe and as a precautionary measure, the Government of Canada has introduced enhanced border measures. At this time, foreign nationals who have travelled in the Southern African region (Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa and Zimbabwe) are not permitted entry to Canada. In the coming days, all fully vaccinated travellers arriving by air from departure points other than the United States will be subject to arrival testing. Fully vaccinated travellers will be required to quarantine while they await the results of their arrival test. Unvaccinated travellers will continue to be tested on arrival and day eight, and quarantine for 14 days.

While this new variant is no reason for alarm, it is important to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health measures that have proven to be effective throughout the pandemic. Residents are encouraged to: practice physical distancing where possible; wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge; always practice proper hand hygiene; consider safety when gathering with friends and family; continue to screen themselves and their children for symptoms of COVID-19; and remain home when feeling unwell. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19.

Vaccination continues to be our best defence in the fight against COVID-19. Eligible residents are encouraged to get their third dose as soon as possible for the added layer of protection. Children five (born in 2016) to 11 (born in 2010) can book an appointment to receive their first dose at a Health Department clinic at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. For a listing of clinic locations for children and hours of operation, visit durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11. Residents 12 and older who have yet to receive their first or second dose can book an appointment at a Health Department clinic or visit any of the upcoming walk-in clinics. Vaccines are also available through select pharmacies and health care providers. For more information please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines.

November 24, 2021

Health Canada has approved the paediatric COVID-19 Pfizer BioNTech (Comirnaty) vaccine for children five to 11-years old and the province announced that eligible children can start booking their appointments to receive the vaccine beginning November 23. Durham Region vaccine clinic appointment bookings for children turning five-years old in 2021 (born in 2016) to children who are 11-years old (born in 2010) opened on November 23 with the first appointments available on November 25. The vaccine will be administered in two doses eight weeks apart for children to be fully vaccinated. The eight-week interval is optimal for longest lasting protection.

Local data show that unvaccinated children 12-plus and unvaccinated children zero to 11-years old, had the highest rate of COVID-19 infection in the past four weeks as compared to partially vaccinated or fully vaccinated residents. Please refer to the Weekly Epi Stats on the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker for more information. Evidence has shown that COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective at preventing serious illness from COVID-19. Children can get sick from COVID-19, spread the virus to others, experience longer-term effects if they get infected and may get a rare but serious complication called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Combined with other public health measures, the COVID-19 vaccine will provide added protection to children five to 11-years old so they can safely participate in school, extra-curricular, recreational and social activities.

Several resources are available for parents and guardians who are hesitant or looking for more information about the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine. Referring to valid and reliable sources of information to understand the benefits and risks of the COVID-19 vaccine is of utmost importance when making an informed decision about the health and safety of your children. Residents can talk to their health care providers, use the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service, refer to the Vaccines for children: COVID-19 Government of Canada web page, refer to the Provincial COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Youth Fact Sheet, or visit durham.ca/covidvaccines for more information and additional resources. Residents may also refer to the Statement from the Council of Chief Medical Officers of Health (CCMOH) which includes considerations for parents and guardians making this important decision regarding vaccination.

Children’s COVID-19 immunization clinics will be available in all area municipalities and will also be held at select school-based clinics by appointment only. For a listing of clinic locations and hours of operation, visit durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11. Appointments can be booked at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113. Children can also receive vaccine through select pharmacies and health care providers. For more information visit durham.ca/covidvaccines. Older family members or friends will not be able to receive vaccine during clinics designated for children; however, individuals 12-plus can book a separate vaccine appointment at durham.ca/vaccineappointment.

Thank you to all residents and local partners for their ongoing efforts to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and keep our community safe.

November 17, 2021

Recent public health trends have shown an increase in COVID-19 spread in some regions across Ontario. Locally, over the past few weeks there has been an increase in new daily COVID-19 cases and there have been a few days where cases have spiked. In response to public health trends across Ontario, the province has paused the lifting of capacity limits in remaining settings where proof of vaccination is required including, food or drink establishments with dance facilities such as night clubs and wedding receptions where there is dancing; strip clubs; and sex clubs and bathhouses. This provincial decision was made to allow time to monitor the potential impact an increase in cases has on hospitalizations and ICU admissions.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, continue to practice public health measures and follow public health advice to prevent further illness spread in our community. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness from COVID-19. If you have yet to be vaccinated, there are several clinic locations across the region where residents can get their first or second doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

Health Canada has authorized both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines as booster shots given after completion of the primary vaccine series to help people maintain their protection against COVID-19 over time. Currently, the following residents are eligible to receive a third/booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine a minimum of 168 days after receiving their second dose:

• Individuals 70 and older (born in 1951 or earlier).
• Health care workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings including long-term care home and retirement home staff, and designated caregivers.
• Individuals who received a complete series of a viral vector vaccine (two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine or one dose of the Janssen vaccine).
• First Nation, Inuit, and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members.

Additionally, certain immunocompromised individuals are at increased risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 and have demonstrated sub-optimal immune response to a two-dose vaccine series due to underlying health conditions. Residents who are moderately to severely immunocompromised and residents receiving immunosuppressive medication are eligible to receive a third dose, and are encouraged to get their third dose as soon as possible to ensure stronger protection against COVID-19.

As there is an ongoing risk of COVID-19 spread in our community, we must continue to do everything we can to protect ourselves and each other. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for information on eligible populations and how to get a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

November 10, 2021

Over the past several weeks, locally we have seen daily case counts decrease and positive trends in key public health indicators. However, we know that things can change very quickly as experienced in other parts of Ontario. Other regions are reporting surges in COVID-19 cases which is an indication that we must remain vigilant. This week, there has been an increase in daily cases locally and Health Department staff is following up with a greater number of contacts of positive cases. As we resume normal activities, gather with loved ones, celebrate special events and holidays, and enjoy community events, we must remember to practice public health measures that can help keep us and our loved ones safe.

Durham Region’s COVID-19 vaccination coverage rate continues to improve as more residents are doing their part and getting immunized. Third doses (boosters) of COVID-19 vaccine have also been approved for certain populations. I urge everyone who is now eligible for a third dose to get vaccinated as soon as possible to provide an added level of protection. I also encourage residents to continue following public health advice and practice the behaviours that have helped to prevent illness spread throughout the pandemic. By working to protect each other, we can avoid a spike in COVID-19 spread in our community. While capacity limits have been lifted in several settings, residents are encouraged to: practice physical distancing where possible; wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge; always practice proper hand hygiene; consider safety when gathering with friends and family; continue to screen themselves and their children for symptoms of COVID-19; and remain home when feeling unwell. Please stay informed about the status of COVID-19 in our community by visiting the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker.

Residents are also reminded that flu season has begun, and the flu shot is available to all residents through local health care providers, walk-in clinics, and area pharmacies. Please protect yourself and others against the flu by getting your flu shot as soon as possible.

November 4, 2021

On November 3, the Ontario government expanded eligibility for booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to additional groups considered to be at high-risk, providing them with an extra layer of protection against the Delta variant. The following residents are now eligible to receive a third/booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine six months (168 days) after receiving their second dose:

• Individuals 70 and older (born in 1951 or earlier).
• Health care workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings including long-term care home and retirement home staff, and designated caregivers.
• Individuals who received a complete series of a viral vector vaccine (two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine or one dose of the Janssen vaccine).
• First Nation, Inuit, and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members.

Booster doses are being offered to these groups based on evidence of gradual waning immunity six months after receiving their second dose, and a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

Eligible residents can receive their third dose at participating pharmacies and health care providers administering COVID-19 vaccine and at Durham Region community immunization clinics.

As of November 4, eligible residents can book a third dose appointment at Durham Region community immunization clinics currently open in Ajax, Oshawa, and Clarington. Additional clinics will be opening in Pickering, Whitby, Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock over the next week. To book an appointment, visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Please be aware that walk-ins will not be accepted for third doses. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, clinic locations and hours, visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

October 27, 2021

Effective October 25, 2021 at 12:01 a.m., the province lifted capacity limits in most settings where proof of vaccination is required including, but not limited to restaurants; bars; indoor areas of sports and recreational facilities such as gyms and where personal physical fitness trainers provide instruction; casinos; and indoor meeting and event spaces. Other establishments are also permitted to lift capacity limits and physical distancing requirements if they choose to require proof of vaccination. Some of these establishments include personal care services settings; museums, galleries, zoos, and similar attractions; indoor areas of amusement parks, fairs, and festivals; indoor areas of photography studios and services; open house events provided by real estate agencies; and, locations where weddings, funerals or religious services, rites or ceremonies take place. This is positive news for local business owners, operators, and patrons. Residents can refer to the provincial government’s plan to safely reopen Ontario and manage COVID-19 for the long-term for further information.

The Health Department has developed several resources available on the COVID-19 Guidance and Advice for Businesses and Organizations web page to help business owners and operators understand how this announcement impacts them. Residents can refer to the updated Step 3 measures and requirements, Frequently Asked Questions, and sector specific advice and guidance. It is important to remember that lifting capacity limits will depend on the type of establishment and whether proof of vaccination is required. Public health measures such as wearing a mask or face covering in indoor public settings and workplaces, screening of patrons and preparing a safety plan all remain in place.

The province’s plan to reopen Ontario is guided by the ongoing assessment of key public health and health care indicators. Residents can monitor local results of key public health indicators such as virus spread and containment, health system capacity, and laboratory testing on the COVID-19 Data Tracker. Locally, there has been a decrease of new reported cases of COVID-19 over the last few days, which is a result of everyone’s efforts to get vaccinated and work together to follow public health measures. With your ongoing cooperation and improving trends, it is hoped that the province will be able to lift remaining public health restrictions over the next several months.

October 21, 2021

The Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker has been used throughout the pandemic to keep residents and Regional partners informed of the status of COVID-19 in our community. Health Department staff has continued to enhance the Data Tracker whenever possible, ensuring transparency and helping residents to make informed decisions. The Data Tracker is updated Monday to Friday, excluding holidays. These regular updates keep the community informed on the number of new cases, time trends, exposure sources, vaccinations and outbreaks.

The Data Tracker also has a wealth of information that is updated weekly each Wednesday. The newest weekly update is on wastewater surveillance. The Health Department has partnered with the Works Department and Ontario Tech University to analyze wastewater samples from seven sites in southern Durham Region to measure fragments of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). People with COVID-19 can shed the virus in their stool, regardless of whether they have symptoms, have been tested for, or diagnosed with COVID-19. The amount of virus in wastewater can be measured by collecting samples from wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations. Wastewater surveillance is a new and emerging field, and we are still learning how to interpret the connection between COVID-19 in wastewater and the level of infection in the community. It is hoped that this surveillance may some day provide early warning of excess COVID-19 in a community that had low incidence of the disease or where there is insufficient testing.

We often receive questions about the information on the Data Tracker. I am pleased that residents continue to refer to the Data Tracker and are interested in the information that is available. The vaccination rates across Durham Region, including the vaccination status of positive COVID-19 cases, are of particular interest to many community members. Please refer to the “Weekly Epi Stats” tab on the Data Tracker at durham.ca/covidcases for case vaccination status. Results for the past four weeks are more stable than daily or weekly reporting for populations like Durham Region where case numbers vary greatly from day to day. For Ontario numbers, residents can refer to covid-19.ontario.ca/data.

Residents should also be aware that flu season is beginning and reporting on the Flu Tracker, durham.ca/flucases, has resumed. This includes reporting of flu cases, institutional respiratory outbreaks (excluding COVID-19 outbreaks), and absenteeism in child care centres, elementary schools and secondary schools. Although there have been no flu cases reported to the Health Department yet this season and there were only two cases last year, more flu is expected to circulate in the community this year as more people gather, attend school, and go into workplaces. The flu shot will be available to all residents in November. Please get your flu shot as soon as it is available to you to protect yourself and help prevent the spread of flu across our Region this season.

October 15, 2021

Now that many residents are vaccinated and most regular activities have resumed, individuals may have questions about what actions they need to take if they are exposed to someone who tests positive for COVID-19. Updated information is available on durham.ca to inform residents of the latest guidance and actions they should take to help prevent illness spread.

Please refer to the COVID-19 Close Contact Fact Sheet and the COVID-19 School/In-School Childcare Close Contacts Fact Sheet to learn what steps you should follow if you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. In general, contacts are required to: stay home and self isolate for 10 days after their last contact with the person who tested positive for COVID-19; monitor themselves for symptoms; seek testing for COVID-19; and only leave the house to get tested or for medical attention. If individuals are fully vaccinated and have symptoms, they should self-isolate and get tested for COVID-19. Fully vaccinated close contacts with no symptoms do not need to self-isolate, but it is recommended that they still get tested. If students are identified as close contacts at school, they will receive instructions from their school. Fully vaccinated students with no symptoms can return to school and should follow instructions received from their school. Please refer to the above fact sheets for further details, as well as information for household members of close contacts.

Updated information is also available about COVID-19 Vaccines. I encourage all unvaccinated residents born in 2009 or earlier to review the latest information and get vaccinated as soon as possible. It is important to continue to stay informed of the latest guidance and instructions so we can take actions to help prevent the spread of illness and keep our community safe.

October 8, 2021

If you would like to have an in-person gathering, there are guidelines available at durham.ca that you may follow to ensure your gathering is as safe as possible. Gatherings must adhere to the measures and restrictions outlined in O. Reg. 364/20. At this time, a gathering cannot have more than 25 people indoors or 100 people outdoors. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor gatherings. When gathering outdoors with a group of fully vaccinated individuals, face coverings and physical distancing are not necessary. However, if there are people from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or vaccination status is unknown, then wearing face coverings should be considered. When gathering indoors with fully vaccinated individuals, you may consider removing face coverings if everyone is comfortable. If people from multiple households are gathering and some are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or their vaccination status is unknown, it is recommended that everyone wear a face covering and physically distance. For greater safety, if gathering indoors, open windows whenever possible or consider using outdoor spaces.

Virtual gatherings or events are still the safest way to celebrate, especially if people in the group are unvaccinated or if their vaccination status is unknown. As always, anyone with symptoms, even mild symptoms, regardless of their vaccination status, should stay home. Whether you are holding a social gathering or attending one, we each can do our part and continue to follow public health measures to protect those we care about.

I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving and upcoming holiday season!

October 4, 2021

As COVID-19, especially the Delta variant, continues to circulate across Durham Region, I encourage all residents to continue to work together and follow public health recommendations that can help to put an end to this pandemic. Vaccination against COVID-19 is one of the best ways to protect yourselves and others from becoming seriously ill from this virus and preventing the need for hospitalization. To date in Durham Region, 84 per cent of residents 18 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and 80 per cent of individuals in this age group are now fully vaccinated. For residents 12 and older, 84 per cent have received at least one dose, while almost 80 per cent are now fully vaccinated. I am pleased to share that since the beginning of September, more than 10,000 first doses and more than 13,000 second doses have been administered at community, mobile and pop-up clinics. Thank you to residents for helping to protect themselves and others by getting their shot.

There are some activities that pose a greater risk and have the potential to enhance COVID-19 transmission. Activities related to organized sports such as close contact, forceful exhalation, prolonged exposure, crowded indoor spaces and removal of masks and face coverings during physical activity contribute to the enhanced likelihood of COVID-19 transmission. Owing to the Delta variant, in addition to implementing a variety of policy measures, the Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) has encouraged sports organizations, such as minor hockey associations, to require proof of vaccination of players, coaches, trainers, referees, etc. I support the CMOH and, accordingly, recommend that facilities consider requiring proof of vaccination for individuals 12 years of age and older, who are: participating in organized sports; coaching, officiating at organized sports or volunteering; and spectating at these events. Verifying proof of vaccination in facilities where organized sports are played and/or practiced will strengthen protections in the community by helping to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Lastly, please note that the Section 22 Class Order (Social Gatherings) has been revised; refer to the Fact Sheet to learn more about this Class Order.

September 22, 2021

Please join me this week during Environmental Public Health Week, September 19-26, thanking our environmental public health professionals for their dedication and ongoing efforts in working to protect the health of our community. Environmental Public Health Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the work of public health inspectors, specialists, and tobacco enforcement officers who work everyday to keep the public safe. Our Health Protection division is staffed by a diverse group of public health experts who inspect local businesses, food premises, recreational water facilities, child care settings, personal services settings, sewage systems and drinking water systems, and investigate health hazards and infectious diseases.

Throughout the pandemic, public health inspectors and tobacco enforcement officers have been instrumental in managing COVID-19 outbreaks and providing expertise in infection control to area institutions, congregate living settings, workplaces, migrant farms and childcare settings. They also provide significant education to local businesses and community stakeholders to ensure public health measures are in place. Health Protection managers and staff continue to be out in the community working tirelessly as the pandemic continues. Unfortunately, at times, staff members face harassment and bullying from members of the public while trying to do their work – work and authority which are articulated in provincial standards and legislation. Despite the challenges they sometimes encounter, they remain committed to doing what is required to protect residents from risks of illness.

I encourage you to celebrate the work of the staff in our Health Protection division, and please continue to be kind and understanding as staff works to keep us all healthy and safe.

September 16, 2021

I have received several questions about the Section 22 Class Order that was issued on September 10, 2021 and came into effect on September 11, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. to all persons hosting social gatherings in Durham Region. The Class Order requires hosts of a social gathering to maintain contact information for all attendees for at least a month and provide the information to the Health Department upon request.

The Section 22 Class Order (Social Gatherings) is a tool to ensure timely and efficient case and contact management during the course of a COVID-19 investigation where a positive case has been identified at a social gathering held at a business, organization or a private dwelling. While the majority of hosts are compliant with the requirements to provide the Health Department with information during a COVID-19 investigation or outbreak, there are some who do not cooperate. Accordingly, we expect the tool will rarely be used.

This class order is a legal tool to help ensure that all hosts of social gatherings follow the Health Department’s requirements to protect the health of the community. Please refer to the Fact Sheet about the Section 22 Class Order for more information.

Case and contact management are essential actions that help stop the spread of an infectious or communicable disease and they have been a main focus of the Health Department’s COVID-19 response activities throughout the pandemic.

There continues to be a risk of COVID-19 in our community and the Health Department must continue to respond to protect the health of residents. Thank you to everyone for your ongoing cooperation.

September 15, 2021

For the past several weeks, the province has been working on improving vaccination rates through its last mile strategy to reach eligible individuals who have yet to be immunized against COVID-19. Locally, Health Department staff has been reaching residents through mobile clinic opportunities across the region and through school clinics. The mass immunization clinics at Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax and Ontario Tech Campus Ice Centre in Oshawa will also remain open, offering both walk-in opportunities and appointments for booking. For a schedule of upcoming school clinics and mobile clinics or to book an appointment at one of the mass immunization clinics, please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

To help increase vaccination rates and protect individuals in higher-risk indoor settings, the province is implementing proof of vaccination requirements which take effect on September 22, 2021. The province has released regulations and guidance for businesses and organizations to support them in implementing the proof of vaccination requirements. Proof of vaccination will be required at certain indoor settings such as indoor areas of restaurants and bars; facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities; casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments; concert venues, theatres and cinemas; and meeting and event spaces. Please consult the regulations and guidance for the complete list of establishments as well as information about related exemptions.

On October 22, the province will implement an enhanced vaccine certificate with a unique QR code that can be shown on a mobile device or printed out. Until implementation of the enhanced vaccine certificate, residents who have a green photo health card can access, save and/or print their proof of vaccination by visiting the provincial portal at covid19.ontariohealth.ca. Residents who have a red and white health card or who do not have a health card can contact the Provincial Vaccine Booking Line at 1-833-943-3900 for a call centre agent to email them a copy of their first and second dose receipts. Individuals will be asked to show their vaccine receipts to enter certain establishments, including those listed above, as of September 22.

I am pleased to share that since Sept. 1, the Health Department has seen a steady uptake in vaccinations with over 6,100 individuals receiving a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. To date in Durham Region, 83 per cent of residents 18 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, with 78 per cent of individuals in this age group being fully vaccinated. For residents 12 and older, 82 per cent have received at least one dose, while 77 per cent are now fully vaccinated – this shows that residents are continuing to make an effort to protect themselves and others by getting their shot. Thank you for all your ongoing cooperation and support in the fight against COVID-19.

September 8, 2021

It is the start of a new school year for elementary, secondary, and post-secondary school students. Many students are returning to in-person learning after more than five months. It is an exciting time for families and we are all hopeful for a safe, productive, and fun school year. To support a safe return to in-person learning for all our students, I encourage students and families to review the instructions and guidelines provided to you by schools, school boards and post-secondary institutions. These instructions and guidelines must be followed to provide safe learning environments for staff and students.

 Schools and post-secondary institutions will have health and safety measures in place to support the health and safety of all students and staff. There is no one measure alone that will prevent COVID-19 spread from occurring in schools; many measures used in combination make schools healthier spaces and reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread. Some of these important public health measures include vaccination, wearing masks or face coverings indoors, frequent hand hygiene, improved ventilation and daily self-screening of all staff and students before attending school.

The Health Department continues to work closely with local schools and school boards to ensure a safe return for all students, staff, and families. School public health nurses have supported schools in their opening plans and will support the implementation of Ministry of Education provincial guidance documents to help ensure safe and healthy school environments. School public health nurses will: support schools with infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures; assist in responding to school-specific inquiries; and provide regular consultation and visits to the schools. School public health nurses will also play a vital role in managing COVID-19 cases and outbreaks in schools, including providing guidance to schools on confirming and controlling outbreaks and facilitating and organizing testing as required.

All eligible students are encouraged to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible to protect themselves and those around them. School-based immunization clinics are being planned in collaboration with school boards. Clinics will be open to staff, students, and family members. Please watch for communications sent to you by school boards or schools about these vaccination opportunities. Students attending post-secondary institutions should ensure they are aware of new vaccination policies that may impact them. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

 It is important that families continue to remain vigilant to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Please conduct self-screening if applicable or screen your children daily before attending school and follow instructions identified in the screening tools. If everyone continues to work together and does their part, we can keep school communities healthy and safe. For more information about COVID-19 and the return to school 2021-2022, please see www.durham.ca/schoolsreopening.

September 1, 2021

The Health Department has been working with its community partners since the beginning of the year to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are available to all eligible residents. I am pleased to share that our vaccine coverage rates continue to improve. Approximately 75 per cent of eligible residents are now fully vaccinated, which is certainly helping to protect our community against serious illness spread. I would like to see our vaccine coverage rates continue to improve to protect more of our residents against COVID-19.

One way that employers can help to protect their workers and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission is to establish a workplace vaccination policy. Employers have an obligation to maintain a safe work environment for their workers. Promoting vaccine uptake is important to help reduce COVID-19 workplace outbreaks and build confidence for a safer return to work. Vaccination against COVID-19 is one of the best ways to protect workers who work in a location with common areas and/or where workers can have contact with other workers, customers/patrons, or the public. The Delta variant of the coronavirus is more contagious, with greater risk for severe illness and hospitalization. COVID-19 vaccination provides an important layer of protection for workers, their families, and the community.

Workplaces can help encourage vaccination by creating a supportive environment that makes it easier for workers to get vaccinated and by providing information from trusted sources. There may be situations where individuals are not able to be vaccinated and it is important to protect the health of those workers and others around them. Workplace policies should also list alternative options for workers who decline to get vaccinated for reasons protected by Ontario’s Human Rights Code, including those unable to complete their vaccination series for medical reasons. Some options to consider include use of additional PPE, frequent COVID-19 testing, worker relocation, and modified work or reassignments.

The Health Department has developed Recommendations for Establishing a Vaccination Policy for your Workplace to assist employers to develop policies appropriate for their workers and those who come in contact with them. The COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect your workplace from the risks of COVID-19; it is safe and highly effective at reducing virus spread and protecting against serious illness.

August 25, 2021

The Health Department is currently investigating a COVID-19 outbreak that is connected to the 43rd Annual Jane and Finch Classic basketball tournament, held at the Playground Global facility at 1313 Boundary Road, Oshawa, from August 3 to 8. This is an active investigation and the Health Department is in the process of gathering information.

There were potentially 7,000 people who attended this event over the five days. We have currently identified 25 cases linked to this outbreak: 16 cases from Quebec and nine in Ontario. Of the Ontario cases, two cases are residents of Durham Region. I urge anyone who attended the event to get tested as soon as possible.

Organizers of events are reminded that COVID-19 continues to spread in our community, and we must all work together to help keep each other healthy. To protect all attendees and staff at events, organizers must comply with public health measures, restrictions and capacity limits as communicated by the Province in Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen.

Local residents who attended the 43rd Annual Jane and Finch Classic basketball tournament can make an appointment to get tested for COVID-19 by visiting http://covidswab.lh.ca or calling the Health Department’s Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729. For more information about Durham Region Health Department’s COVID-19 response or current case monitoring, please visit www.durham.ca/novelcoronavirus or www.durham.ca/covidcases.

August 18, 2021

While vaccination rates continue to improve, approximately 27 per cent of eligible residents are not fully vaccinated. Now that we are in the fourth wave of this pandemic and we are seeing an increase in disease spread across the region, I encourage all residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Although mass immunization clinics have begun to wind down, the Health Department continues to offer opportunities to get vaccinated with a focus on target populations and communities with lower vaccination rates. Mobile and pop-up clinics aim to reach residents that may not have been able to access one of Durham Region’s mass immunization clinics or earlier pop-up or mobile clinics. A list of upcoming clinics is available at www.durham.ca/covidvaccines and information is continually updated as new information becomes available. In addition to the mobile and pop-up clinics open to all residents listed on durham.ca, the Health Department is working with its community partners to organize specialized clinics for identified groups, such as post-secondary students and residents with special needs.

On August 17, the province announced several actions to increase protection for vulnerable populations, including: mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies in high-risk settings; pausing the province’s exit from the Roadmap to Reopen; providing third doses of COVID-19 vaccine to select vulnerable populations at highest-risk; providing vaccination clinics in or nearby schools; and expanding eligibility for the Pfizer vaccine to children born in 2009 or earlier.

Locally, beginning Wednesday, August 18, residents born in 2009 and turning 12 years old in 2021 will be able to receive a COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine at a mass immunization, mobile or pop-up clinic. Individuals at highest-risk that are eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will be contacted by their health care provider for further information and will not be able to book an appointment for a third dose through the Health Department’s booking system at this time. The Health Department will continue to work with its partners such as long-term care facilities, higher-risk licensed retirement homes and First Nations elder care lodges to address the vaccination needs of their residents. Lastly, please stay tuned for information about upcoming vaccination clinics for school communities. Information will be provided at www.durham.ca/covidvaccines when available.

August 11, 2021

I’m pleased to report that as of Aug. 9, we have administered over 907,700 doses of COVID-19 vaccines through community, hospital, pop-up and mobile clinics across Durham Region. In addition, we now know that 70 per cent of individuals 12 and older and almost 71 per cent of adults 18-plus are now fully vaccinated with two doses. This is a tremendous achievement and we should all be very proud with our efforts as we work toward getting all Durham Region residents vaccinated. More information on vaccination rates in Durham Region is available at www.durham.ca/vaccinetracker.

This is very good news as we head into the next phase of our vaccine delivery campaign which will see the continuation of pop-up and mobile clinics available in neighbourhoods and communities across the region, and the winding down of our mass immunization clinics with the first closure taking effect on Aug. 14; see www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for the mass immunization clinics closing schedule. Our mass immunization clinics have been operating daily since March. However, we are now seeing that local mass immunization clinics are no longer filling up, signaling the need to phase out large scale clinics. As the need for large mass immunization clinics comes to an end, there will still be many opportunities for residents to get vaccinated. While this winding down process begins, walk-in opportunities for either first or second doses will continue to be available at mass immunization clinics for anyone 12 and older until all clinics have closed. People can still book appointments at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Individuals who have an appointment booked at a mass immunization clinic after the date that the clinic closes will be contacted by phone or email about where they can receive their vaccination.

Health Department walk-in mobile and walk-in pop-up vaccine clinics are being planned on a smaller scale to be available in the community for those who have waited or been unable to access mass immunization clinics; details are now posted at www.durham.ca/covidvaccines. The list of clinics will continue to expand as more mobile and pop-up community clinics are confirmed. In addition, pharmacies and some primary care providers continue to offer vaccine in the community.

COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for anyone 12 years and older. All Durham Region residents are urged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others against variants of concerns, including the Delta variant which is circulating in Durham Region. It is important for residents to get vaccinated at their earliest opportunity and everyone is encouraged to get their second dose as soon as they are eligible. Individuals who received Pfizer vaccine for their first dose would be eligible for their second dose 21 days after the first dose; those who received Moderna vaccine as their first dose would be eligible for their second dose 28 days following their first dose. We’ve come this far and have all worked very hard to protect our community throughout the pandemic. I encourage you to continue working together in taking this one last step to ensure that all Durham Region residents are able to get vaccinated.

August 4, 2021

Since the province moved to Step 3 of its Roadmap to Reopen on July 16 and Ontarians are now enjoying most regular activities, there has been an increase in COVID-19 activity across the region. On July 30, we saw the highest number of new daily cases since June 15. Residents are also now interacting with more people which has led to an increase in the number of close contacts potentially exposed to COVID-19. Exposure in the community and through household contacts are the most prevalent exposure sources.

In taking a closer look at new cases identified from July 19 to 25, we know that most of these cases were either unimmunized (23 per cent), only had one dose of vaccine (24 per cent), or their vaccination status was unknown (34 per cent). The age of new cases ranged from four to 66, with the greatest number of cases being between 20 to 29-years old (27 per cent), followed by residents 12 to 19 (23 per cent) and residents 30 to 39 (19 per cent). Currently, these are also the age categories with the lowest percentage of individuals who are fully vaccinated. For the latest local vaccine coverage information, please visit durham.ca/vaccinetracker.

The data show that a risk of illness spread remains across the region and the risk of COVID-19 increases for residents who are not fully vaccinated. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated after receiving both doses of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series, and it has been at least two weeks since receiving your second dose. Remaining vigilant and following public health measures such as proper hand hygiene, remaining home when experiencing symptoms and wearing a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces continue to be important, as well as being vaccinated.

As September approaches, additional residents will be returning to work settings, families are preparing for schools to reopen and numerous post-secondary students are looking forward to in-person learning opportunities at post-secondary institutions. To minimize the impacts of a potential fourth wave, please protect yourself and others by rolling up your sleeve and getting your shot.

July 28, 2021

I am pleased to share that more than 76 per cent of residents 12 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and more than 63 per cent are fully vaccinated. We are well on our way to protecting residents across the Region against serious illness, but we are not there yet. We would like to see further improvements in these numbers and hope that many more residents get fully vaccinated over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, we have seen a slight increase in the number of new daily cases of COVID-19 over the past week. New cases are being seen among unvaccinated and partially vaccinated residents and mostly in younger populations, under the age of 40. These are also the populations with the lowest vaccine coverage rates currently. The Health Department has improved access to vaccines by providing more opportunities for walk-ins at area clinics. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines to see where and when you can get your first or second dose.

We are inviting you to share and celebrate receiving your shot. On July 26, Roll Up Your Sleeves Durham photo selfie displays will be located at area COVID-19 vaccination clinics, encouraging residents to take a selfie after receiving their COVID-19 vaccine and posting it on social media to celebrate Durham Region’s achievement in increasing vaccination rates. The contest is open to all Durham Region residents 12 and older who have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Two $50 gift cards for either the Oshawa Centre or Pickering Town Centre will be awarded to two Durham Region residents. Entries can be submitted until Aug. 31.

When checking out after receiving your vaccine, anyone can go to the This Is Our Shot #TogetherAgain photo selfie displays located outside the clinics or look for the This Is Our Shot #TogetherAgain banners posted in clinic windows. All residents are invited to take a selfie and post it in the comment section of one of the Health Department’s Facebook social media posts highlighting the contest. People who don’t use social media can also participate by emailing a copy of their selfie to vaccine.contest@durham.ca. If you choose not to share a selfie, but would still like to participate, you can like and share one of the Health Department’s COVID-19 vaccine education social media posts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to enter the contest. All education posts will include #ThisIsOurShotCa #TogetherAgain, making them easy to identify.

Whether you’re just getting your first dose, you had your first dose several weeks ago or you’re fully vaccinated with two doses, everyone is welcome to take part in this contest. If you’re already fully vaccinated and will not be going back to a clinic, you can also participate. Simply take a selfie, indicating that you’re fully vaccinated, and post it in the comment section of one of the Health Department’s Facebook social media posts highlighting the contest. Prizes will be awarded by random draw of all contest entries.

The Health Department would also like to hear from residents about their experience receiving their vaccine at an area clinic. Residents attending an area clinic will now be able to respond to a survey to share their feedback. Residents who have already been vaccinated and agreed to be contacted for research purposes will be sent the link to the survey via email. The survey is anonymous and will be used to evaluate our processes and inform future improvements. Residents who did not consent to being contacted but would like to share their feedback can complete the survey online at durham.ca/vaccinesurvey.

July 23, 2021

I am pleased to share that more than 800,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered across the region, which includes over 480,000 residents who have received at least one vaccine dose and more than 361,000 residents who have received their second dose and are now fully vaccinated. Being fully vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19. Please visit the COVID-19 Data Tracker and durham.ca/vaccinetracker for the latest local case numbers and vaccine coverage information.

We are now reaching out to individuals in the 18 to 29 and 30 to 39 age groups – these groups currently have the lowest vaccination rates in Durham Region, with 45 per cent of individuals 18-29 having received two doses of vaccine, while 47 per cent of those 30-39 have received two doses. While many individuals in these age cohorts have received their vaccine, I would encourage others in these age groups to receive their first and second doses as soon as possible. As the province opens back up, having two doses of vaccine will provide the best protection as we once again are able to enjoy the company of friends and family. You don’t need to book an appointment – first doses are easily available on a walk-in basis at local immunization clinics.

There are many Durham Region residents who have second dose appointments booked for September and October, however, these individuals are eligible for an earlier second dose. At this time, all area residents who received a first dose of an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) can receive their second dose after 28 days, and those who received AstraZeneca as their first dose can receive their second dose after eight weeks (56 days). I encourage everyone to book their second dose appointment as soon as they are eligible.

In our effort to improve access to vaccines for all residents, youth 12 to 17 are able to receive a first dose of vaccine at local immunization clinics on a walk-in basis. However, appointments are currently required for second doses at local immunization clinics for this age group. To book an appointment, visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or contact the call centre booking line at 1-888-444-5113. For the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region visit durham.ca/covidvaccines.

July 16, 2021

As vaccination rates and other health system indicators have continued to improve, the province moved to Step 3 of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on July 16, 2021.

Locally, more than 75 per cent of Durham Region residents 18 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and daily new case numbers continue to decline. Please visit the COVID-19 Data Tracker and durham.ca/vaccinetracker for the latest local case numbers and vaccine coverage information.

Step 3 allows for additional indoor activities to resume, adjusts capacity limits and restrictions, and allows for more people to gather indoors and outdoors. In Step 3, area residents will be able to enjoy additional activities such as: gathering with up to 100 people outdoors and 25 people indoors; attending concert venues, theatres and cinemas; enjoying time at bars and nightclubs; visiting a local gym; participating in indoor and outdoor sports and recreation activities; and receiving additional personal care services. Please visit the COVID-19 Guidance and Advice for Businesses and Organizations webpage for more information on restrictions and permitted activities and refer to O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Step 3 for further details.

While Step 3 allows for residents to get back to almost all their regular activities, it is important to remember that Step 3 includes several restrictions and capacity limits that must be followed. We must all continue to wear a mask or face covering indoors and practice physical distancing as much as possible; certain exemptions are in place. Capacity limits for businesses and establishments are specified in Step 3 to support physical distancing.

Health Department staff will continue to focus on vaccinating eligible residents, but must also continue to respond to complaints, inspect businesses and local establishments, and enforce compliance with public health restrictions. Staff also continues to manage cases of COVID-19 and their close contacts. My team remains committed to ensuring that we all follow public health advice and resume activities safely to protect the health of all residents. In Step 3 we request the ongoing support and cooperation of all community members so we can continue to move forward. Please be respectful to Health Department staff out in the community and on the phone, who continue to work tirelessly to address risks to the public and provide information to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation; with your continued support, we can look forward to a summer that only gets better.

July 12, 2021

On July 12, a comment from World Health Organization Chief Scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan was taken out of context regarding vaccine mixing with initial headlines reporting that vaccine mixing is a dangerous trend. Dr. Swaminathan was asked by reporters if booster vaccines were necessary and in her reply, she cautioned that countries need to focus on fully vaccinating the global population before discussing boosters or receiving three or four doses of multiple brands. She is quoted as saying “it is a bit of a dangerous trend”, referring to the trend of receiving three or four doses as scientists do not yet know if booster shots are necessary for additional protection and this takes vaccines away from those who need it most. Unfortunately, the media used this quote out of context with various headlines claiming mixing and matching vaccines is dangerous according to the World Health Organization.

These comments have created some confusion within the community leading individuals to question the practice of mixing mRNA vaccines. The Ontario Ministry of Health has confirmed that the mixing of mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna), as well as mixing AstraZeneca and an mRNA vaccine, is safe, effective and enables more Ontarians to receive their second dose sooner. Ontario continues to follow the advice of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) which recommends that it is safe to mix these vaccines based on studies from the UK, Spain and Germany that have found that mixing vaccines is safe and produces a strong immune response.

There is no change in practice related to vaccine interchangeability in Durham Region, Ontario or Canada. The province will continue to monitor the data working with Health Canada, NACI and the federal government. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region.

July 7, 2021

I am pleased to share that 67 per cent of Durham Region youth 12 to 17 have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. While vaccination rates are moving in the right direction, we would like to see more youth get vaccinated over the summer months, prior to the start of the new school year in September. In order to improve access to vaccines for youth, residents 12-17 years of age and their unimmunized family members can receive a first dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at local immunization clinics offering Pfizer on a walk-in basis until July 19, without an appointment; appointments are required for second doses. As there must be a minimum of 28 days between first and second doses, unimmunized youth are encouraged to get their first dose as soon as possible to allow time to receive a second dose prior to September.

Although youth are less likely to experience serious illness from COVID-19, some younger people do get very ill, some require hospitalization and some may experience serious long-term effects. Younger people who experience mild symptoms may also spread COVID-19 to others who may get severely ill. Currently, vaccines are not approved for children younger than 12 years of age which means that a large proportion of elementary school children cannot be vaccinated at this time. To support a safe and productive school year, in which students can enjoy in-person learning and time with their friends, I encourage all eligible youth to get vaccinated to protect themselves and those around them, including younger family members who are unable to be vaccinated. Being fully vaccinated is our best protection against COVID-19.

Youth and their families may have several questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, including how it works, its side effects and safety. Some mild side effects from the vaccine are common and will resolve within a couple of days such as, soreness of the arm where you received the vaccination, tiredness, headache, muscle and joint pain, chills and mild fever; serious vaccine reactions are rare. It is important that youth and families make an informed decision about getting vaccinated. There are many credible resources which can help answer questions, including: the Government of Canada Vaccines for COVID-19 web page; Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine safety web page; Public Health Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccines web page; and the Health Department’s COVID-19 Vaccines web page.

In our effort to improve access to vaccines for all residents, adults 18 and older can receive a first dose of Moderna vaccine at local immunization clinics offering Moderna on a walk-in basis until July 19, without an appointment; appointments are required for second doses. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines to get the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region.

June 30, 2021

As Ontario has continued to improve in key public health and health system indicators and provincial vaccination rates have surpassed identified targets, the province moved to Step 2 of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on June 30.

Locally, trends also continue to improve; the number of daily cases has ranged from eight to 12 over the past week and currently there are no outbreaks in long-term care or retirement homes, child care centres or workplaces. Health Department staff and community partners continue efforts to vaccinate all residents who wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine; more than 73 per cent of Durham Region residents 18 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Over the summer, we will continue to work towards vaccinating all eligible residents with the goal of improving the percentage of residents who are fully vaccinated. Please visit the COVID-19 Data Tracker and durham.ca/vaccinetracker for the latest local case numbers and vaccine coverage information.

Area residents will be pleased to know that Step 2 includes easing of additional public health restrictions allowing everyone to get back to some activities that have not been permitted since the provincewide Stay at Home Order was issued in April. In Step 2, several establishments can open and some services may resume with restrictions and capacity limits in place, including: personal care services where face coverings can be worn, public libraries, outdoor amusement and water parks, overnight camp, and stores in shopping malls. Outdoor social gatherings and organized public events are permitted for up to 25 people and outdoor dining is permitted for up to six people per table. Please visit the COVID-19 Guidance and Advice for Businesses and Organizations web page for more information on restrictions and permitted activities. Residents and businesses may also refer to O. Reg. 263/20: Rules for Areas in Step 2 for further details.

Please remember that public health restrictions and capacity limits continue to be in place. I urge all residents to continue to follow public health measures and resume activities safely to ensure that we prevent any increases in disease spread. Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation; our collective actions continue to make a difference.

June 23, 2021

The Health Department has received notice from the province that the delayed shipment of Pfizer vaccine is now scheduled to be received later today. This delay affected the supply of Pfizer vaccine at Durham Region mass immunization clinics resulting in the Health Department administering Moderna vaccine at area clinics for appointments booked for individuals 18 and older. This shipment allows the Health Department to resume providing Pfizer vaccine at area mass immunization clinics located at the Audley Recreation Centre, Ajax, Ontario Tech Campus Ice Centre, Oshawa and the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex, Bowmanville, on June 24. Clinics in north Durham and McKinney Centre, Whitby, will remain unchanged and continue to administer Moderna vaccine.

The Health Department has also received an additional supply of Moderna vaccine which has allowed an increase in daily appointments to 1,550 from the current 940 appointments at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, Pickering, which will now only offer Moderna vaccine. As Durham Region was recently identified as a Delta hot spot, it is crucial to get as many residents fully immunized as quickly as possible to ensure an optimal level of protection and to help in slowing the rate of transmission within our community. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization has indicated that both mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) provide proven protection against COVID-19 and are safe and effective to be used interchangeably. Both vaccines are authorized for use in Canada, work the same way and are highly effective.

Individuals 12 to 17-years old will continue to be vaccinated with Pfizer vaccine, as Pfizer is the only vaccine approved in Canada for this age group. Youth who had appointments booked at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex clinic site will be contacted by Health Department staff to discuss options for booking at other clinics where Pfizer is offered.

Please remember that clinic staff have no control over the supply of vaccine available at area clinics, but they are available to answer questions and help clients feel comfortable prior to receiving vaccine. Appointments are available for booking at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by contacting the call centre at 1-888-444-5113.

June 22, 2021

Over the weekend, the Health Department was notified by the Ontario Ministry of Health of a delay in its shipment of Pfizer vaccine, affecting supply at local mass immunization clinics. As a result of this delay, all clinics in Durham Region will move to offer Moderna vaccine to adults 18 and older until additional Pfizer vaccine is received. The Health Department’s remaining Pfizer vaccine supply is limited and will currently be used to vaccinate youth 12 to 17-years old as Pfizer is the only vaccine approved in Canada for this age group.

Mixing vaccines is safe, effective and allows residents to receive their second dose sooner. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) is a committee of experts that has been providing guidance to the Government of Canada on the use of vaccines since 1964. NACI recommends that:

• People who received a first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine may receive either AstraZeneca or a mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) for their second dose; and
• People who received a mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) for their first dose should be offered another mRNA vaccine for their second dose to complete the vaccine series if the same mRNA vaccine is not readily available.

Both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines use a similar mRNA technology and are safe to mix. Residents will be considered fully immunized two weeks after receiving a second dose of these Health Canada approved vaccines, even if their first dose was different than their second. For more information, please refer to the Ministry of Health’s fact sheet: A Safe and Effective Second Dose or NACI’s Recommendations on the Use of COVID-19 Vaccines.

Durham Region was declared a Delta hot spot by the province on June 17 and we are seeing an increase in the number of cases confirmed for the Delta variant (please refer to the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker). Being fully vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19 and its variants, including the Delta variant. With the Delta variant spreading locally, it is important that area residents complete their vaccine series with a second dose of the most readily available COVID-19 vaccine for optimal protection.

Please be aware that clinic staff have no control over the supply of vaccine available at area clinics, but they are available to answer questions and help clients feel comfortable prior to receiving vaccine.

June 16, 2021

I am pleased to share that more than 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered across the region, almost 450,000 residents have received at least one vaccine dose and more than 85,000 residents have been fully vaccinated. Being fully vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19. Thank you to the residents who are patiently waiting for an appointment for their second dose. Appointments will become available when vaccine supply is confirmed.

Residents now have more options available for their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has provided updated guidance and has indicated that authorized COVID-19 vaccines can be interchanged or mixed. It is recommended that residents who received a first dose of Pfizer or Moderna (both mRNA vaccines) receive a second dose of the same vaccine. However, if the same vaccine is not readily available, residents can receive a second dose of either mRNA vaccine.

Residents who received a first dose of AstraZeneca can choose to receive AstraZeneca or an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) eight to 12 weeks after their first dose. Residents may go to a health care provider or pharmacy offering these vaccines or they may wait for appointments to become available at Health Department mass immunization clinics. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for further information on how to book an appointment for your second dose.

The Health Department has received several questions about why appointments for second doses are not yet available for anyone who received a first dose on or before May 9, as has been announced in other regions. The Province announced that individuals who live in Delta hot spots are eligible to receive a second dose if they received their first dose on or before May 9. A Delta hot spot is a region with a high prevalence of the B.1.617 variant, as identified by the Province. Thankfully, there have been few cases of the Delta variant locally and the Province has not identified Durham Region as a Delta hot spot at this time. Health Department staff is working to update the Variants of Concern information on the COVID-19 Data Tracker to show the number of cases confirmed for the Delta variant in Durham Region.

Our goal is to open eligibility for second doses to more residents as soon as we are able based on vaccine supply and appointment availability. Please stay tuned for further updates in the coming days. As we continue to work on immunizing more residents and as Ontario has moved to Step 1 of the Province’s Roadmap to Reopen, please remain vigilant, stay informed, ensure you get back to permissible activities safely and follow all public health measures.

June 9, 2021

The province continues to monitor the provincewide vaccination rate and key public health and health system indicators to determine when public health measures can be lifted. Based on the vaccine rollout and improvements in public health trends, the Province will be moving to Step 1 of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on June 11.

Area residents will be pleased to know that trends have also been improving locally; the number of daily cases has been decreasing and almost 70 per cent of Durham Region residents 18 and older have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit the COVID-19 Data Tracker and durham.ca/vaccinetracker for the latest local case numbers and vaccine coverage information. Thank you for the ongoing support and cooperation of area residents, local businesses, and community partners; our collective actions are making a difference.

Moving to Step 1 means that some local businesses can reopen with restrictions and capacity limits in place and residents can enjoy more outdoor activities in a safe way. Some of the activities that can resume in Step 1 include: outdoor gatherings for up to 10 people; outdoor dining for up to four people per table; essential retail businesses can operate at 25 per cent capacity and big box and discount stores are permitted to sell all items; non-essential retail businesses can operate at 15 per cent capacity for in-person shopping; and indoor gatherings for the purposes of a wedding, funeral or religious service, rite or ceremony are permitted up to 15 per cent capacity of a particular room. Please visit the Roadmap to Reopen website for a list of additional activities that are permitted in Step 1 and O. Reg. 82/20: Rules for Areas in Shutdown Zone and at Step 1 for further details.

While this is good news and everyone is looking forward to getting back to normal activities, it is important to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health measures. To ensure that we continue to see a downward trend in the number of new COVID-19 cases, please continue to practice physical distancing, wear a face covering indoors and when physical distancing is a challenge, practice proper hand hygiene, and get vaccinated as soon as you are eligible.

June 2, 2021

Vaccine eligibility was expanded last week to individuals 12 years and older and appointments became available on May 31. The summer is the ideal time to ensure that eligible youth get fully vaccinated prior to the start of the new school year in September. I encourage all area youth to get their first dose as soon as possible so they can receive their second dose before the end of August. If residents have had COVID-19, it is still important to get vaccinated. The vaccine will help to protect you from getting ill again and will also help to guard against new COVID-19 variants.

Health Canada has approved the use of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for youth 12 to 17-years old; this means that Health Canada has determined that the vaccine is safe and effective for this population. Pfizer-BioNTech is currently the only vaccine that will be offered to youth at vaccine clinics across Durham Region.

The pandemic has greatly impacted students, families and educators over the past 15 months with school closures, outbreaks and self-isolation requirements. Vaccinating eligible youth is the best way to protect students against COVID-19. Being fully vaccinated will help area youth get back to normal activities and will support a safer, enjoyable and productive 2021/2022 school year.

It is understandable that many families have questions about the vaccine and its safety. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines to learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and find answers to frequently asked questions. Information is also available on the provincial COVID-19 vaccines for youth web page and the Government of Canada Vaccines for COVID-19 web page. Please remember that there is a lot of information available on the Internet and through social media that is not credible; ensure that the resources you are consulting are trustworthy, science-based and updated on a regular basis.

Please visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113 to book an appointment, and please remember to follow all public health guidance – wear a face covering, practice physical distancing and adhere to local and provincial restrictions, and continue to do so even after you and your family members have been vaccinated.

May 26, 2021

This week, May 23 to 29, is Paramedic Services Week and provides an opportunity to recognize the important role that Region of Durham Paramedic Services (RDPS) plays to keep our community safe and healthy. Everyday our paramedics demonstrate their commitment to respond to area residents’ urgent health needs, support COVID-19 response efforts, and provide health supports in the community. The theme for Paramedic Services Week 2021 is Paramedic as Educator – Citizen Ready, which highlights the role that paramedics play as educators and also provides an opportunity to educate the public on some simple steps individuals can take during an emergency to help paramedics do their jobs more effectively. Please take this opportunity to follow @DurhamParamedic on Twitter for ongoing tips and helpful information from RDPS.

Throughout the pandemic, paramedics have not only continued to save lives and provide emergency health care to residents experiencing serious health events, but they have been an integral part of the Health Department’s COVID-19 response efforts. They have taken on additional responsibilities by providing mobile testing and vaccination clinics. Paramedics have obtained more than 21,000 nasal swabs from area residents, school staff and students, clients, and staff in child care centres, long-term care and retirement homes, shelters, and other congregate living settings. They have also been instrumental in the planning and implementation of mobile vaccine clinics throughout the region and have administered 8,664 COVID-19 vaccine doses through mobile clinics. RDPS has continued to operate its Primary Care Outreach Program in collaboration with Social Services to provide primary care outreach and social services to priority populations. In 2021, RDPS implemented a pilot community paramedicine initiative to support the High Intensity Supports at Home (HISH) program to help patients with high care needs transition from hospital back to their home or community setting.

During the pandemic, as frontline workers, our primary care paramedics and advanced care paramedics put themselves at risk everyday to provide the highest quality care to others. Thank you to RDPS staff for its ongoing commitment to respond to urgent health care needs and keep community members healthy and safe during the pandemic.

I am also pleased to share at this time that the Health Department has expanded COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to individuals 12 years and older. Appointments are available starting on May 31 and appointment bookings became available on May 25 at 9 p.m. To book an appointment, visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. For further information and clinic locations please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

May 21, 2021

For the past two weeks, the Health Department has been monitoring increasing cases of COVID-19 in the Highland Towers Apartments (White Oaks apartment complex) in Whitby. Since May 1, approximately 143 cases have been identified at this apartment complex, which includes 47 new cases confirmed following a Health Department on-site testing event held on May 20 for residents of the four apartment buildings in the area. Region of Durham Paramedic Services (RDPS), in collaboration with Durham Region Public Health (DRPH) staff, provided testing through the RDPS mobile unit to help identify any additional cases in the buildings in an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Testing was available for all residents two-years old and older. As concerns have been identified for the potential of disease spread in these buildings, the Health Department will be holding a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for residents of the Highland Towers Apartments (White Oaks apartment complex) on May 25 – this clinic will be conducted by paramedics through the RDPS mobile unit which will be located in Jeffery Street Park. The clinic is open to all eligible residents 12 years and older who live in the four area apartment buildings. Residents will be notified and encouraged to attend to receive a first dose if they have not yet done so.

Throughout the pandemic, Health Department staff has continued to monitor various area workplaces, congregate living settings and multi-unit living dwellings to help identify any potential cases of COVID-19, in an effort to contain and reduce the spread both within these settings and throughout the broader community. DRPH, working with RDPS, will continue to offer on-site services to these settings as identified and needed, and provide area residents with the support necessary to help ensure safe living and workplace environments. As vaccines continue to roll out to the broader community, we continue to remind all Durham Region residents to follow all public health guidance – limit non-essential trips outside your home, wear a face covering, practice physical distancing and adhere to local and provincial restrictions, and continue to do so even after you have been vaccinated.

May 19, 2021

Health Department staff and our community partners continue to work hard to vaccinate area residents in accordance with the province’s vaccination plan. I am pleased to share that more than 331,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered across the region at community and hospital clinics, hot spot pop-up clinics, hot spot mobile clinics, through primary care and in pharmacies.

The latest enhancements on the Vaccinations tab on the COVID-19 Data Tracker provide detailed information about vaccine administration and vaccine coverage. Visit durham.ca/vaccinetracker and click on the Vaccinations tab for details. Vaccine administration data, which can be filtered by age group, are available regarding first and second doses, vaccine brand and administration site. Vaccine coverage information includes data by age group, gender and municipality. This information highlights the successes and progress made to date and also helps to identify where further vaccination efforts and focus may be required. As of May 17, almost 20,500 local residents have received both their first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccine thanks to Health Department staff, Region of Durham Paramedic Services, our Regional partners and our community partners including Lakeridge Health, local primary care providers and pharmacies.

On May 17, all residents 18 and older, or those who will be turning 18 this year were eligible to book a vaccine appointment at any Durham Region community mass immunization clinic. Please visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113 to book an appointment. Appointment availability is dependent on vaccine supply. While we encourage all eligible residents to book an appointment as soon as possible, we ask for your continued patience if an appointment is not available immediately. Vaccine appointments will become available as soon as vaccine supply is confirmed.

Please remember to follow all public health measures, limit non-essential trips outside your home, wear a face covering, practice physical distancing and adhere to local and provincial restrictions even after you have been vaccinated. The province is closely monitoring vaccine coverage, disease spread and public health risk to help inform when restrictions may be lifted.

May 12, 2021

May 10 to May 16 is National Nursing Week, which provides an opportunity to increase awareness of the important role that nurses have in supporting the health and well-being of area residents. Throughout the pandemic, the Health Department’s nurses have been involved in all aspects of COVID-19 response and COVID-19 vaccination from planning to implementation. I acknowledge the dedication, care, compassion, and expertise that nurses who work in public health continue to show everyday. The Health Department’s nurses have also continued to deliver essential programs such as: providing supportive advice, education and referral to other services in the community; responding to questions about immunizations; investigating many infectious diseases to ensure those affected have the information they need; and they have ensured that clinical services such as breastfeeding and sexual health have remained open for as long as possible.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Health Department’s nurses have completed 175,856 COVID-19 phone interactions with residents and community partners, followed 32,603 COVID-19 cases and contacts, and completed 66,663 nursing assessments to determine if further medical intervention is required. They continue to work tirelessly to implement provincial direction regarding COVID-19 vaccination, and are working very hard to ensure the efficient operation of our community-wide mass immunization clinics so that as many residents as possible can be vaccinated. With the support of all our nurses, I am pleased to report that more than 250,000 doses of vaccine have been administered locally so far.

I know that colleagues across the Health Department, Region, as well as our community partners, depend on the highly skilled and knowledgeable nurses who work in public health; everyday, our nurses provide input and advice on collaborative initiatives that aim to keep residents informed and protect those at risk of becoming ill. As key members of the Health Department team, our nurses have played a fundamental role in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic and we continue to rely on them as we work together to decrease the spread of illness in our community. Thank you to all our nurses who work in public health. #weanswerthecall #nursesmakeusvaccinestrong

May 5, 2021

Last week the province announced that additional populations would be eligible to receive vaccines across the province throughout May. This week, all Durham Region residents who are 50 and older, or those who will be turning 50 this year, and essential workers who cannot work from home (Group 1) are eligible to book a vaccine appointment at any of the mass immunization clinics across the region. Some of the eligible Group 1 residents include: elementary/secondary school workers who typically work in-person; workers responding to critical events, such as police; children’s aid society workers; workers in inspection and enforcement; and those working in food manufacturing and distribution. For a complete list of eligible essential workers please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

There are also now additional vaccine locations available for residents living in identified hot spots. Residents 18 and older who live in Ajax and Pickering hot spot postal codes, L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z, are eligible to book appointments for COVID-19 vaccine at mass immunization clinics located in Ajax (Audley Recreation Centre), Pickering (Chestnut Hill Developments Complex Arena) and Whitby (McKinney Centre). Residents living in hot spot areas can also continue to book appointments at hot spot pop-up clinics. Please visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113 to book an appointment. To be eligible for vaccine, all residents must be at least 18-years old on the day of their vaccination appointment.

In addition to the above clinics, residents of hot spots can also access postal code specific walk-in mobile clinics, as well as the fixed-site hot spot pop-up clinic located at the Ajax Community Centre; however, please note bookings are currently full for the Ajax Community Centre hot spot pop-up clinic.

Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines often; the website is updated with new information frequently. Information regarding locations of mobile hot spot clinics is posted as it becomes available.

There are currently more than 75 pharmacies across the region that are offering AstraZeneca vaccines to area residents 40 and older, or those who will be turning 40 in 2021. For information on participating Durham Region pharmacies see https://covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations. The AstraZeneca vaccine pharmacy program is overseen by the province.

While eligibility is continuing to expand, we ask that residents continue to be patient as vaccine appointments are based on vaccine availability. If vaccine appointments are not available when you try to book an appointment, please try again later. More appointments will become available when additional vaccine is confirmed.

I acknowledge that residents are anxious to receive vaccine and many residents are feeling frustrated because they are not able to get an appointment immediately or have been turned away from a walk-in mobile hot spot clinic. The ongoing public health measures and the stay at home order are also impacting residents in numerous ways. Despite the ongoing challenges of this pandemic I ask residents to please be respectful and work together to keep each other safe. Sadly, we continue to experience instances of residents taking their frustrations out on our staff. Please remember that it is the Health Department’s role to protect the health of the public and provide residents with the information they need to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community. As we do our work, we will not tolerate community members who engage in the use of profane, aggressive, abusive, sexist, racist or homophobic language. The health and safety of Durham Region residents continue to be our main priorities. We ask for your ongoing cooperation and support to help keep everyone safe.

April 28, 2021

The province is continuing to expand eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine as part of its targeted approach focusing on hot spot communities and essential workers most impacted by COVID-19.

Durham Region residents who are 45 and older, or those who will be turning 45 in 2021 and live in the L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z hot spot postal codes are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at designated community mass immunization clinics in Ajax, Pickering and Whitby or at hot spot pop-up clinics. All Durham Region child care workers in licensed child care settings are also now eligible to book their COVID-19 vaccination appointments at any community mass immunization clinic. Child care workers will require a letter from their employer confirming eligibility. Appointments for these new eligibility groups are now available for booking at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113.

Ajax and Pickering residents 18 and older living in the L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z hot spot postal codes are eligible to receive vaccine at the fixed Ajax Community Centre hot spot pop-up clinic or at one of the rotating hot spot pop-up clinics that will be available in the Ajax and Pickering hot spot areas. Information about these rotating pop-up clinics and how to book an appointment is available at www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

In our strategy to reach as many residents as possible living in hot spot communities, we will continue to operate walk-in mobile clinics where appointments are not required. The location of hot spot mobile clinics will be posted at www.durham.ca/covidvaccines shortly before each clinic is scheduled in a specific community. Residents must show proof of age and address when arriving at all hot spot mobile clinics.

Area residents 40 and older, or who will be turning 40 in 2021, are able to book appointments through participating pharmacies to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine. For information on participating Durham Region pharmacies see https://covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations. The AstraZeneca vaccine pharmacy program is overseen by the province.

Please also remember that all area residents who are 60 and older or those who will be turning 60 this year can book an appointment at any of the mass immunization clinics in the region.

Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines to check if you or your family members are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and get vaccinated as soon as it is your turn. While appointment availability depends on vaccine supply and eligibility is directed by the province, the Health Department remains committed to vaccinate residents as quickly as possible to help protect the community against further spread of COVID-19.

April 21, 2021

The Health Department is currently working to immunize the populations identified in Phase 2 of the province’s vaccination plan. As part of Phase 2, the province has identified “hot spot” communities where COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted certain neighbourhoods. In Durham Region, the province has identified communities with postal codes beginning with L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z as the “hot spots”. Our strategy to reach residents who live in these communities includes advising those who are 50+ or those who are turning 50 this year to register at a mass immunization clinic, establishing pop-up clinics for those 18+ living in these hard hit communities, and providing hot spot mobile clinics to further reach these target populations. Beginning April 22, there will be a pop-up vaccine clinic at Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax, for residents 18+, or who will be turning 18 in 2021, who live in Ajax and Pickering hot spots (L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z). Residents who live in these communities can book an appointment at the hot spot clinic by visiting covidvaccine.lh.ca or calling 905-721-4828. Please note that residents must have an appointment to receive a vaccine at the pop-up clinic; walk-ins will not be accepted. The Health Department will be communicating additional pop-up clinic and hot-spot mobile locations in the coming days, as they are established.

We are grateful to local community partners who are supporting local immunization efforts including participating pharmacies that are providing AstraZeneca vaccine to residents 40 and older, or those who will be turning 40 in 2021. Residents can visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations for information on participating Durham Region pharmacies.

I urge all eligible residents to get vaccinated as soon as it is your turn. COVID-19 has been spreading at an alarming rate and we all need to continue to work together in the fight against this virus. Please follow all public health measures, adhere to local and provincial restrictions, stay home as much as possible, and get vaccinated when you are eligible.

April 14, 2021

Over the past week, unfortunately, we have seen the largest numbers of new daily cases of COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic. Case and contact management continue to be key Health Department COVID-19 response activities to help control the spread of illness across the region. Case management begins with notifying positive cases and collecting important information from people infected with COVID-19 to determine potential risk for the community.

Due to the significant increase in cases, the Health Department has implemented the "virtual assistant" to help with notifying positive cases and collecting some preliminary information prior to the initial phone call from public health. Residents who test positive for COVID-19 will receive a text message from Durham Region Health Department with a secure link to complete a personal assessment survey, which will collect information about their health status, close contacts and potential exposures to COVID-19. The information collected is kept confidential and is protected by Ontario’s privacy laws. All positive cases will continue to receive a call from public health; the virtual assistant helps prepare clients for further contact from Health Department staff and helps to focus the conversations on the follow-up, clarifications and instructions required thereafter. Completing the survey is optional and clients can opt out of receiving texts from the virtual assistant at any time. Please be aware that in some cases, residents that test positive may not receive a text message, such as when they haven’t provided a mobile phone number at the time of testing.

As COVID-19 continues to spread across the region, please continue to follow public health measures, stay at home as much as possible, avoid social gatherings and any non-essential travel and, where possible, work remotely.

April 9, 2021

In response to the surge in COVID-19 cases across Ontario, the provincial government has declared a third provincial emergency and issued a provincewide Stay at Home Order, effective Thursday, April 8, to be in place for at least 28 days. Locally, we have also seen an alarming increase in cases. The Stay at Home Order requires everyone to remain home except for essential purposes such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health services, going outdoors for exercise, going to school or for work that cannot be done remotely. Maximum public health measures, closures of certain businesses, and additional restrictions for businesses that can remain open are in effect. The majority of non-essential retailers can operate for curbside pick-up or delivery only, big box stores are limited to sales of essential items, and those responsible for businesses or organizations that remain open are asked to ensure, where possible, staff members conduct their work remotely. Indoor social gatherings with anyone outside of your household are not permitted at this time (if you live alone, you can have close contact with only one other household) and outdoor social gatherings are limited to five people. For further details, please refer to the Stay-at-Home Order and Provincewide Shutdown Advice from Durham Region Health Department, the Q&A document and O. Reg. 82/20.

While the Stay at Home Order has been implemented to decrease illness spread, getting vaccinated will also help to bring case numbers down in our community. All residents who are 60 years and older, or those who will be turning 60 this year, residents 50 years and older living in “hotspots” in Ajax and Pickering (within postal codes L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z), as well as individuals in the Highest-Risk and High-Risk health conditions group are encouraged to register to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Residents may have heard that vaccinations in “hotspots” are available to those 18 years and older. Please note that the provincial announcement included the 18-plus targeted initiative for individuals in Peel and Toronto public health regions only. In Durham Region, we are identifying eligible groups as quickly as possible, based on provincial direction and vaccine supply. Please visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment to book an appointment if you are eligible at this time and visit durham.ca/covidvaccines often for the latest information on current priority groups eligible to receive a vaccine in our region.

I encourage all members of our community to get vaccinated as soon as they’re eligible, as this vaccine is a crucial step in helping to curb the spread of COVID-19.

March 31, 2021

Residents who are 70 years and older, or those who will be turning 70 this year, are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible residents are encouraged to book an appointment at any of the available clinics in Ajax, Clarington, Pickering, Whitby and in north Durham in Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge by visiting durham.ca/VaccineAppointment. Residents who need assistance to book an appointment can call 1-888-444-5113. Appointments are also available at the Oshawa site located at Durham College/Ontario Tech University Campus Ice Centre. Residents can book an appointment at the Oshawa location at covidvaccine.lh.ca or 905-721-4828.

While vaccine supply is still limited and we are not able to offer vaccines to additional populations yet, all eligible residents are urged to book an appointment and get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity. Cases of COVID-19 across the region are increasing rapidly. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you; some can have serious, life-threatening complications and unfortunately, some individuals may die. Vaccines are a crucial tool to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The combination of getting vaccinated and continuing with public health measures such as wearing a mask, physical distancing and hand hygiene will provide the best protection to residents during the ongoing pandemic. We will continue to offer vaccines to more populations as vaccine becomes available. Please visit durham.ca/CovidVaccines for the latest information on current priority groups, local clinics, vaccine safety and frequently asked questions.

Please have a safe holiday weekend and enjoy the holiday with members of your own household or with others virtually, avoid social gatherings, stay at home as much as possible and avoid any non-essential travel.

March 24, 2021

The Health Department continues to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to priority groups in accordance with the province’s vaccine implementation plan. Residents 75 years and older, or those who will be turning 75 this year can now book appointments at any of the eight COVID-19 vaccination clinics operating across the region. Mobile clinics have been vaccinating certain priority groups and individuals who may have difficulty accessing larger clinics. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for the most up to date information about COVID-19 vaccine, priority groups, vaccine clinic locations and information on how to book an appointment.

A new Vaccinations tab has been added to the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker which shows the total doses administered in community, hospital and mobile clinics. Data reflect totals from the previous day and include doses administered by the Health Department and Lakeridge Health to people who live or work in Durham Region. The total includes both first and second doses. Work is ongoing to determine how the Data Tracker can be further enhanced to provide additional information.

The recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the region is concerning. While we are pleased that almost 70,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered to those living and working in Durham Region, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow public health measures to help prevent a further increase in COVID-19 cases. Please continue to stay informed about the status of COVID-19 in our community by visiting the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker, follow public health measures, stay at home as much as possible, avoid social gatherings and, where possible, work remotely. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones, as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread.

March 17, 2021

As the pandemic continues, it is understandable that everyone is feeling frustrated, exhausted and anxious for life to return to normal. Sadly, some of the public health restrictions intended to keep the public safe from COVID-19 have also impacted community members in very serious ways, in some instances leading to financial hardship, job loss, loneliness and isolation. The past year has been very challenging for so many, especially for those that have lost a loved one to COVID-19. While we know the past year has been difficult, I ask all residents to continue to be respectful, support each other and work together to prevent illness spread in our community.

Incidents of abusive and threatening language against my staff have been escalating recently. Staff is also having to manage increasing numbers of residents who refuse to comply and cooperate with public health direction and residents who are angry with provincial public health measures and direction. Under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, it is the Health Department’s duty to protect the public from health hazards in our community and risks of communicable diseases. My staff has the authority to enforce provincial laws, Medical Officer of Health orders and public health direction to keep people safe. It is important to remember that the Health Department’s role to protect the health of the public has not changed, but the risks to our community have changed significantly. My staff continues to work very hard to address these risks and provide all residents with the information they need to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

While we are now working on vaccinating residents in accordance with the province’s vaccine implementation plan, we continue to manage cases of COVID-19 and their high-risk contacts, respond to outbreaks, and conduct inspections to ensure businesses and workplaces are complying with public health measures. As we do this work, we have zero tolerance for community members who engage in the use of profane, aggressive, abusive, sexist, racist or homophobic language. We know that most members of our community are willing to do what’s right to protect all of us. However, I assure you, those who are not willing to comply with public health instructions and continue to subject Health Department staff to abuse and harm will be referred to the appropriate authority for follow-up. This is not something that I take lightly and will ensure the protection of my staff remains a high priority.

The health and safety of Durham Region residents continues to be our main focus. The ongoing cooperation and support of area residents will help keep everyone safe.

March 10, 2021

Beginning this week, residents who are 80 and older, or those who are turning 80 this year, are able to book an appointment at one of three local vaccination clinics located at: the Durham College/Ontario Tech University Campus Ice Centre in Oshawa, operated by Lakeridge Health; Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex in Clarington; or Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex in Pickering. Additional vaccination clinics will be opening next week. As of Tuesday, we had already booked a total of 3,555 appointments for this population at the Pickering and Clarington clinic sites and are very pleased that we have started vaccinating seniors in our community.

Each day, we are seeing appointments book-up quickly, with no appointments being available within just a few minutes. Appointment availability depends on vaccine supply. While we are expecting additional vaccine from the province in the coming days, vaccine is in short supply at this time. Eligible seniors or those assisting them to book an appointment can visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. The Durham College/Ontario Tech University site in Oshawa is currently fully booked until March 17 and is closed for new bookings as Lakeridge Health reviews vaccine allocations and delivery schedules, but residents can visit covidvaccine.lh.ca or call 905-721-4828 for updates. Please note that vaccination clinics are by appointment only and those without an appointment will be turned away.

In the coming weeks, we will provide information about mobile clinics for individuals who may have difficulty accessing larger clinics, as well as information about the next priority groups eligible for receiving vaccines. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for the most up to date information about COVID-19 vaccine, priority groups and vaccine clinic locations.

Unfortunately, we continue to see new cases of COVID-19 daily across the region and the Health Department’s COVID-19 response efforts related to case and contact management are still ongoing. As we are now managing vaccine administration in addition to other COVID-19 response efforts, the Health Department is receiving assistance from the Provincial Workforce for case and contact management. Residents who test positive for COVID-19 may receive follow-up calls from the Provincial Workforce, as well as a text message asking them to complete a voluntary assessment form. Completing this form helps the Health Department with the important work of contact tracing. All information collected is kept confidential and protected by Ontario’s strict privacy laws and will only be used for public health purposes. Thank you for your cooperation with public health staff as you are helping to prevent others from getting ill.

Please continue to follow public health measures to help stop the spread of illness in our community, stay at home as much as possible, avoid social gatherings and, where possible, work remotely. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones, as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made.

March 3, 2021

The public health community across the globe has been monitoring the emergence of variants of concern (VOCs) in the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) virus since late last year. Variants are viruses that have changed or mutated, which is common in coronaviruses. VOCs can be more transmissible, may result in more severe illness or can impact vaccine effectiveness. The VOCs currently identified globally and in Ontario include: B.1.1.7 (first identified in the UK), B1.351 or 501Y.V2 (first identified in South Africa) and P.1 (first identified in Brazil). VOCs are circulating locally and Health Department staff continue to monitor the situation closely to mitigate the risks of greater community transmission. Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 will be notified by Health Department staff if they screen positive for a mutation or if their specimen is confirmed as a VOC. It is very important that residents contacted by the Health Department follow all recommendations to protect family members, co-workers and other contacts from getting ill.

A new section has been added to the Case Status tab on the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker which shows the number of cases confirmed for VOCs and screened positive for VOCs. VOC case information is also available by municipality. In Durham Region, there has been a total of 183 VOC cases (confirmed or screened positive) to date. Residents and community partners who are interested in reviewing the provincial status of VOCs may refer to Public Health Ontario’s Daily Epidemiologic Summary report.

Please continue to follow public health measures, stay at home as much as possible, avoid social gatherings and, where possible, work remotely. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones, as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made.

February 26, 2021

Many local businesses have reopened following the provincial decision to move Durham Region to the Red-Control zone of the COVID-19 Response Framework. It is important that businesses reopen safely and comply with the restrictions in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Thank you to business owners and operators for your support and efforts to ensure customers and staff remain safe during the ongoing pandemic.

Currently across the region, provincial offences officers, public health inspectors, tobacco enforcement officers and local by-law officers are visiting businesses as part of an education campaign to carry out inspections and ensure compliance with the Reopening Ontario Act. Inspectors will be checking for compliance with various requirements including adhering to capacity limits, appropriately screening workers and customers, enforcing masking requirements, and having appropriate safety plans in place. Businesses such as hair and nail salons, tattoo studios, dance studios and full-service restaurants may be inspected over the next few days as part of this campaign.

Health Department staff continues to conduct public health inspections and investigations on an ongoing basis to help keep community members safe. Recent enhancements to the Health Department’s Check&Go! disclosure program now allow users to view inspection results and legal activities related to COVID-19 response. COVID-19 inspection results and legal activities for other facilities not routinely inspected by the Health Department are also included (e.g., fitness facilities and various retail stores).

Please continue to support local businesses and follow the public health measures that they have implemented to help keep us all healthy and safe, and remember to stay local. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones. Travel between regions should be avoided as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made.

February 24, 2021

The Health Department continues to receive numerous inquiries from residents about the availability of COVID-19 vaccine. We are very pleased that area residents are expressing an interest in getting vaccinated as soon as possible, as vaccination of the broader community will reduce the risks of COVID-19 across the region. While we understand that many are anxiously awaiting their turn, at this time we are working to ensure that immediate priority groups are vaccinated in accordance with the province’s three-phased vaccine distribution implementation plan.

In partnership with Lakeridge Health, the Health Department will begin operating COVID-19 vaccination clinics for the following Phase 1 priority groups:

• Staff and essential caregivers in long-term care homes, high-risk retirement homes and First Nations elder care homes, and residents of these homes that have not been vaccinated;
• Alternate level of care patients in hospitals who have confirmed admission to a long-term care home, retirement home or other congregate care home;
• Highest Priority health care workers, followed by Very High Priority health care workers, in accordance with the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19: Guidance for Prioritizing Health Care Workers for COVID-19 Vaccination; and,
• Indigenous adults in northern remote and higher risk communities (including on-reserve and urban communities).

Currently, vaccination clinics are not open to the public and we are not taking bookings or reservations from residents. When all immediate priority groups have been vaccinated, vaccination of other remaining Phase 1 population groups will begin. We will communicate to community members and local health care providers when appointments can be booked for this population. Timelines for vaccinating Phase 2 priority groups will depend on vaccine availability and completion of vaccination of Phase 1 priority groups.

The Health Department continues to prepare for immunization of the broader community. With the support of local area municipalities, future clinic locations have been secured in all Durham Region municipalities, which will provide access to residents in the communities where they live. Please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines for the most up to date information about COVID-19 vaccine, priority groups and vaccine clinic locations.

We are pleased that we will be vaccinating immediate priority groups next and ask for everyone’s continued patience as we follow provincial direction and work through each phase of the vaccine distribution implementation plan. Please continue to follow public health measures, stay at home as much as possible, avoid social gatherings, and where possible, work remotely. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones. Travel between regions should be avoided as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made.

February 16, 2021

Durham Region has now moved to the Red-Control level of the provincial government’s COVID-19 Response Framework. This means that stringent measures and restrictions are in place across multiple sectors to control transmission of COVID-19. While many businesses, facilities and establishments can open, they must follow the restrictions and rules specified for the Red Zone. Some of the main restrictions in the Red-Control level include: businesses, places, facilities or establishments that are open must prepare and make available a safety plan; indoor dining is limited to 10 people in an establishment with a limit of four people seated together; gathering limits of five people indoors and 25 people outdoors for all organized public events and social gatherings; capacity limits for sports and recreational fitness facilities of 10 members of the public indoors and 25 members of the public outdoors, ensuring physical distancing requirements; capacity limits of 75 per cent for supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies and 50 per cent for all other retail; active screening at all mall entrances; no personal care services requiring removal of a mask or face covering are permitted at this time; and, cinemas remain closed. A detailed list of rules and restrictions is available in the Control – Red Zone (Stringent Measures) guidance document.

Please refer to the Community Reopening Toolkit which provides:

• Sector specific guidance.
• Special instructions and Section 22 orders for employers, workplaces and retail establishments.
• Responses to Frequently Asked Questions to help residents and local business owners and operators further understand requirements in the Red-Control level.

Public health inspectors and tobacco enforcement officers continue to be out in the community working to educate owners and operators about COVID-19 health and safety requirements, and they have the authority to enforce applicable laws to keep employers, staff and the public safe. We depend on the cooperation of local businesses and the public to prevent COVID-19 transmission in our community.

Please continue to stay at home as much as possible and leave your home only for essential reasons, avoid social gatherings, and where possible, work remotely. Any non-essential travel should be avoided, even between public health measure zones. Travel between regions should be avoided as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made. Thank you for doing your part to help keep each other safe.

February 11, 2021

Earlier this week, the provincial government announced that it will gradually transition each region from the shutdown measures to a revised and strengthened COVID-19 Response Framework. For Durham Region, the Stay-at-Home order will remain in effect until Feb. 16. The province continues to monitor public health indicators very closely and while we do not know yet which zone of the framework we will be placed in, we recommend businesses have a plan for each zone. We will provide further information as soon as it is available. Residents and businesses may also refer to the COVID-19 public health measures and advice provincial webpage for further information.

Local businesses are reminded that current restrictions remain in place and area residents are reminded to continue to stay home as much as possible. Leave only for essential reasons such as grocery shopping, going to the pharmacy, getting fresh air and exercise, going to school, etc. Please avoid all social gatherings and non-essential travel throughout the Family Day holiday weekend. Travel between regions should be avoided as it will greatly increase the potential for spikes in community spread and undo all the progress we have made.

Thank you for your commitment and patience as we work together to decrease COVID-19 transmission in our community. Please visit durham.ca/novelcoronavirus often to remain informed about local public health advice, measures and restrictions.

February 10, 2021

Durham Region area schools have reopened for in-person learning, as classes resumed this past Monday, Feb. 8. We understand the important role that schools play in supporting the mental health and well-being, physical health, developmental health and learning for our children and youth. We also recognize how important it is to balance the health risks of COVID-19 and infection rates, and children’s health and well-being. To help in addressing these concerns, provincially-mandated enhanced public health measures have been established for all school communities which include:

• All students in grades one to 12 are required to wear a mask. This applies in classrooms and in hallways, before and after school programs, and on student transportation. Kindergarten students are strongly encouraged to wear masks.
• All students in grades one to 12 and school staff are required to wear a mask outdoors when physical distancing cannot be consistently maintained.
• Effective Feb. 10, secondary students are required to provide daily confirmation/proof that they have self screened and must wear a mask while on school premises.
• School staff and essential visitors are required to provide daily confirmation/proof of having completed the daily screening prior to arrival.
• All essential visitors to the school are required to wear a mask.
• Students, parents and staff are not to congregate in, or around school property.

Throughout this week, school public health nurses (PHNs) have been visiting schools to review the recommended infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures and provide support to school communities in the implementation of school boards’ COVID-19 health and safety plans. School PHNs are a school’s key public health contact for IPAC support, guidance, surveillance, screening and management of COVID-19 cases or outbreak within schools; this includes facilitating COVID-19 testing, as required. School PHNs also support communication with families and the broader school community regarding COVID-19 protocols, and can support mental health and well-being of school communities by providing resources and connecting staff and students with community supports.

It is important that parents continue to remain vigilant to stop the spread of COVID-19. Parents are responsible for screening their children for symptoms of illness every day using the provincial COVID-19 school and childcare screening tool. Parents are also required to have children stay at home if children are not feeling well. Together we can keep school communities healthy and safe. For more information about COVID-19 and the reopening of schools visit durham.ca/schoolsreopening.

February 3, 2021

The health and safety of Durham Region residents remain the Health Department’s main priority. Staff have been actively involved in COVID-19 response for a year and continue to focus on preventing illness spread in our community every single day. Each one of my dedicated staff members have a role to play in COVID-19 response; they use their specialized knowledge, skills and expertise to minimize risks of illness. The #PublicHealthProtects infographic highlights some of the Health Department’s COVID-19 response activities and achievements to date. Thank you to all area residents and community partners for continuing to support us in the fight against COVID-19.

Unfortunately, some Health Department staff have encountered negative comments, non-compliance and, in some cases, abusive language and behaviour, as they are doing their job working to keep everyone safe. I acknowledge that the pandemic has been exhausting and has had a significant impact on daily life. However, the pandemic is not over, and my staff continue to focus on mitigating the risks of COVID-19. Whether it is a public health nurse on the phone answering questions or working closely with a resident who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 to help identify potential risk for others, or a public health inspector who is responding to an outbreak or conducting an inspection to ensure public health measures are followed, please remember that their advice, direction or instruction is intended to prevent illness spread and deaths in our community.

While we continue to strive to provide exceptional customer service, we have zero tolerance for community members who engage in the use of profane, aggressive, abusive, sexist, racist or homophobic language. Where necessary, individuals who engage in such behaviour will be referred to the appropriate authority for follow-up. Please be respectful and continue to work together to protect each other.

January 27, 2021

The Health Department continues to enhance the Durham Region COVID-19 Data Tracker to keep area residents and local partners informed of the status of COVID-19 across the region. The newest tab provides information on the number of workplace and community event outbreaks that are either ongoing or have concluded. A workplace outbreak is defined as two or more laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases in a workplace with evidence that transmission occurred in the workplace within a 14-day period, where at least two cases could have reasonably acquired their infection in the workplace. A community event (e.g. wedding) outbreak is defined as three or more laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases occurring in the community from at least two different households, with evidence of transmission within a 14-day period, where at least two of the cases could have reasonably acquired their infection in the community setting.

In addition to the workplace and community events outbreaks enhancements, residents who are interested in the data for their own neighbourhood can now access a new time period filter which has been added to the Neighbourhoods Map tab. This new feature allows users to view cumulative case data for specific time periods.

If you have reviewed the information on the Data Tracker recently, you would have noticed there has been a decrease in the number of new cases over the past few days. While this may indicate that things are moving in a positive direction, we must all be aware that we are still seeing daily fluctuation in case numbers and there continues to be a high risk of illness spread in our community.

Monday, Jan. 25, marked the one-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 case reported in Ontario. In Durham Region, the first case was reported approximately one month later, Feb. 28, 2020. Over the past year, everyone has had to adapt to different ways of doing everyday things such as working, learning, shopping, staying active and socializing. While the fight against COVID-19 has been exhausting, we all need to continue following public health advice as we wait for the availability of vaccine for the broader population. Please continue to only go out for essential purposes, stay home if you have symptoms of COVID-19, wear a non-medical mask or face covering in public places, and remember to practise physical distancing and frequent hand hygiene.

January 20, 2021

Over the weekend, Jan. 16 and 17, Health Department public health inspectors visited area big box and grocery stores to ensure compliance with COVID-19 public health measures as part of a provincial enforcement blitz. Public health inspectors were joined by provincial inspectors, as well as local bylaw and police officers, in this initiative to help protect workers and customers in response to rising COVID-19 cases. Inspections focused on ensuring that workers and patrons were wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and following all public health and safety measures.

A total of 53 big box and grocery stores were inspected as part of the campaign, with the Health Department completing inspections at 21 of these stores. The Health Department issued six warning letters and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development issued three tickets and three occupational health and safety orders. Warnings, orders or tickets were issued for non-compliance with various public health measures such as: having a safety plan, active staff screening, proper use of masks or face coverings, and proper cleaning and disinfection.

Throughout the pandemic, public health inspectors and tobacco enforcement officers have been working to ensure compliance with public health measures that will help keep everyone safe. They continue to respond to complaints, conduct inspections and educate business owners, operators and staff on the actions that are required to comply with regulations, instructions and public health advice. Since the beginning of the pandemic’s second wave last September, public health inspectors have responded to over 4,700 inquiries and complaints related to lack of compliance with COVID-19 public health measures. Staying informed will help ensure compliance and continues to be of utmost importance as we all work together to fight COVID-19. Please visit durham.ca/novelcoronavirus often for new and updated information. Sector-specific resources for business owners and operators are available at durham.ca/reopeningtoolkit.

Inspections of big box and grocery stores will be ongoing, as compliance with public health measures can help prevent further illness spread in our community. Thank you to all local businesses, employees and residents for remaining committed to following public health advice and working hard everyday to keep everyone safe.

January 13, 2021

The province of Ontario declared a second provincial emergency, effective Jan. 12, 2021 and issued a stay-at-home order which goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 14, 2021. The announcement follows the alarming provincial projections shared by the Science Table, which is a group of scientific experts and health system leaders that is informing Ontario’s response to COVID-19. The stay-at-home order requires everyone to remain at home unless they are going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services, going outside for exercise or going to work where the work cannot be done remotely. All businesses are required to ensure that all workers who can work remotely do work from home. These public health restrictions aim to limit mobility and reduce the number of contacts that people have with individuals outside their household. The provincial emergency provides authority to all provincial offences officers, including the Ontario Provincial Police, local police services, public health inspectors, bylaw officers, and provincial workplace inspectors to issue tickets to individuals, employees and corporations in retail settings and businesses who do not comply with an order. The enhanced measures also provide them with the authority to disperse crowds indoors and outdoors, and closed premises.

In Durham Region, we have seen a very concerning increasing trend in the number of new daily cases since December and we continue to respond to outbreaks that are affecting our most vulnerable residents in long-term care homes and retirement homes. I urge all residents to follow public health measures and requirements, only go out for essentials, stay home if you have any symptoms, and please protect yourselves and others when you must go out by wearing a face covering, practicing physical distancing and practicing frequent hand hygiene.

January 6, 2021

Everyone has been anticipating the rollout of COVID-19 vaccine and is anxious for more information. Durham Region Health Department remains committed to sharing information as soon as it becomes available. The decisions regarding how the vaccine will be distributed across Ontario and who will be vaccinated first are under the control of the provincial government. The province has developed a three-phase plan for vaccinating Ontarians which is available on its COVID-19 vaccines for Ontario web page. The plan focuses first on vulnerable populations who are at greatest risk of COVID-19. At this time, the Health Department has not received any vaccine and we are awaiting further information from the province regarding timelines.

Under the provincial plan, Lakeridge Health is one of 17 Ontario hospitals that received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to support vaccination of designated essential caregivers. Currently, individuals who are being vaccinated in Durham Region include health care workers and essential caregivers who work in hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate settings caring for seniors. The Health Department continues to be engaged with our local hospital partners and we are providing support as needed. In the coming weeks, vaccines will be available to residents of long-term care homes and retirement homes, as well as First Nation communities and urban Indigenous populations, including Metis and Inuit adults. Later this winter, it is anticipated that area residents 70 and older will be able to be vaccinated. We are working with our provincial partners to ensure that the Health Department is prepared to receive, distribute and administer vaccines when they are available to us. We understand that area residents have many questions about how and when the broader public will be vaccinated. Please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines often for updates regarding COVID-19 vaccines.

Presently, the two vaccines approved for use in Canada are the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Both are mRNA vaccines which means that the vaccines tell the cells in our body to make a protein that is found specifically on the virus that causes COVID-19. These “spike proteins” trigger our body to start making antibodies which will protect us from becoming ill if we are exposed to the virus. Both vaccines require two doses; following the second dose, it may take another one to two weeks to achieve maximum protection against COVID-19. Since we don’t have information on long-term protection yet, it will be important for those that have been vaccinated to continue with public health measures such as physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when sick. At this time, the use of the Moderna vaccine is approved for people who are at least 18-years old and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is approved for individuals who are at least 16-years old. The safety and effectiveness of these vaccines in children has not yet been established, however, we do expect that vaccines will be available for younger populations in the future.