Starting Monday, (July 13th) you’ll have to wear a face covering when entering the indoor premises of businesses, organizations and public transit systems in Simcoe-Muskoka.
The local Health Unit made the announcement today and says it will be achieved through instructions to businesses and organizations to have a policy in place requiring this.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is issuing the instructions under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) to help prevent the possible spread of Covid-19.
“As we move through the stages of the reopening of the economy there is an increased risk of resurgence of COVID-19 transmission in our communities,” says Dr. Charles Gardner, SMDHU’s Medical Officer of Health (at right). “Locally, we are seeing more visitors from other parts of the province with a much higher incidence of COVID-19, resulting in crowding in public spaces, and this has us concerned.”
“There is emerging evidence that suggests the spread of COVID-19 can be reduced with a high level of compliance of non-medical mask use by the public,” he adds. “As well, we have a great deal of support for the use of face coverings in indoor public spaces from municipalities, physicians and hospitals, and other community partners.”
The Health Unit has prepared instructions for businesses and organizations with the expectation that they use their “best efforts” requiring the public to wear face coverings, including the use of signs and verbal reminders.
There is no requirement, however, that a business turn away a customer who is not wearing a face covering. In addition, there are certain exemptions including age, religious practices and medical circumstances.
A face covering means a medical or non-medical mask or other face coverings such as a bandana, a scarf or cloth that covers the mouth and nose.
“Our businesses and organizations that are open to the public have worked diligently to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and many already ask that patrons and clients wear a face covering,” said Dr. Gardner. “Requiring the public to wear a face covering is an extra step to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and is key for the continued successful reopening of the local economy and to safeguard our residents against the virus in circulation now, into the fall and beyond.”
For more information about COVID-19, including frequently asked questions and signage for businesses, see www.smdhu.org or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
July 7, Media briefing with SMDHU’s Medical Officer of Health
Video from our Facebook Live media briefing today with Dr. Charles Gardner, Medical Officer of Health, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, and local media.You can also watch this video on our YouTube channel with captions: https://bit.ly/3eCgU3j
Posted by Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit on Tuesday, July 7, 2020
To help reduce the risk of #COVID-19, on Monday July 13th wearing a face covering will be required in all indoor public spaces and public transit services in Simcoe Muskoka.
Learn more about what this means for you: https://t.co/Fyp5V1B6Ro pic.twitter.com/ycAjt5si5I
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) July 7, 2020
