The Ontario government is putting in new restrictions at long-term care homes to protect residents from the Omicron variant.
Effective Thursday, December 30, general visitation to all homes will be paused. Designated caregivers will still be able to enter the homes.
Social trips away from the home will also be restricted for all residents.
“We know that long-term care residents face an increased risk of COVID-19. Given the high community infection rates we’re seeing with the Omicron variant, the time for more action is now,” said Minister of Long-Term Care Rod Phillips. “In addition to the steps we’ve already taken, these new temporary measures will help keep residents safe and help critical staff remain on the job.”
The province did not announce how long these measures will be in place. Long-term care homes will be monitored and measures will be adjusted as necessary.
“I understand that these new, temporary measures will impact residents’ ability to have close contact with many of their friends and family members,” said Minister Phillips. “We must remain vigilant against the Omicron variant to protect long-term care residents and staff.”
As of December 24, there were 26 homes in Ontario experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak.
“We know these measures are difficult for residents and families, but we must stand strong to protect our most vulnerable, which includes residents of long-term care homes,” said Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore. “I encourage everyone to get their booster shot as soon as possible so we can keep everyone safe with the added layer of protection that the vaccine provides.”
As of December 22, 84 per cent of eligible long-term care residents had received a booster dose of the vaccine while only 43 per cent of eligible staff in homes had received the third dose.