Ontario Announces New Measures Amid Rising COVID Cases | The Canadian News

The Ontario government has announced new measures amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the province.

Eligibility for booster shots will be extended to everyone 18 years of age and older beginning January 4. Appointments can be booked about six months after the second dose.

The government is also extending the use of the vaccination test system beyond January 17, which is when the province previously indicated that the measure would begin to be lifted in certain settings.

Starting January 4, QR codes will be the only accepted way to provide proof of vaccination in the province.

Original vaccination receipts, which have been susceptible to fraud, will no longer be accepted.

Starting December 20, the government says proof of vaccination will be required for youth ages 12 to 17 to participate in organized sports.

The government says it is also planning an “enhanced winter testing strategy” starting next week, offering rapid antigen testing to asymptomatic people at no charge at pop-up test sites in “high-traffic” areas such as shopping malls, shopping centers. transit and retail stores. .

3:11Ontario Plans to Extend Vaccine Passport System Beyond Jan 17: Sources

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Officials are also encouraging Ontarians to limit social gatherings during the holidays. Employers are encouraged to allow workers to work from home when possible.

“As we continue to learn more about the Omicron variant, we are taking additional steps to protect our progress as we approach the winter months,” Health Minister Christine Elliott said in a statement.

“Vaccination and compliance with public health and safety measures in the workplace will continue to protect us and our loved ones against COVID and variants, but we will not hesitate to continue to take swift action to ensure the continued health and safety of all. Ontario residents “.

COVID-19 cases have risen in Ontario in recent weeks, although the number of people hospitalized or in intensive care with COVID-19 has remained relatively stable.

More to come.