Restrictions in Windsor-Essex are being tightened as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.
The Ontario government is moving the Windsor-Essex area to the "grey-lockdown" classification on the province's COVID-19 response scale. This is the most restrictive classification. York is also moving up to the lockdown phase.
The move is effective at 12:01 a.m. Monday.
Windsor-Essex and York Region join Toronto and Peel Region as the only regions in Ontario under lockdown status.
"Over the last week, public health indicators in the York and Windsor regions have continued to trend in the wrong direction and it is evident additional measures are needed to help limit the spread of the virus," said Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams. "By making this difficult but necessary decision we can help to ensure that hospitals in these regions can work to provide patients with the care they need when they need it, including the performing of scheduled surgeries and other important procedures."
Under lockdown, residents are urged to travel only for essential reasons, with no indoor gatherings allowed except among members of the same household. Restaurants and bars may not offer in-person dining, though takeout, drive-thru, and delivery are allowed including alcoholic beverages.
Elementary and secondary schools can typically stay open under lockdown, although the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has ordered all schools closed starting Monday, with students shifting to online learning.
Complete information on the restrictions imposed by "grey-lockdown" status can be found on the provincial government's official website.