{"id":87334,"date":"2020-07-07T14:04:19","date_gmt":"2020-07-07T18:04:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntsville.dopperonline.ca\/?p=87334"},"modified":"2020-07-08T17:36:32","modified_gmt":"2020-07-08T21:36:32","slug":"health-unit-now-requiring-masks-in-indoor-public-spaces-simcoe-muskoka","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/doppleronline.ca\/huntsville\/health-unit-now-requiring-masks-in-indoor-public-spaces-simcoe-muskoka\/","title":{"rendered":"Health unit to require masks in indoor public spaces in Simcoe Muskoka starting July 13, 2020"},"content":{"rendered":"

 <\/p>\n

This information was released by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit on July 7. See the link at the bottom of the page for more in-depth coverage on Doppler.<\/em><\/p>\n

As of Monday July 13, 2020, the public is required to wear a face covering (i.e. non-medical mask) when entering the indoor premises of businesses, organizations, and on public transit systems in Simcoe Muskoka. This 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 these instructions under the authority<\/a> of the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act<\/a><\/em><\/span> (EMCPA) in an effort to prevent the possible spread of COVID-19.<\/em><\/p>\n

“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. 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,” said Dr. Charles Gardner, SMDHU\u2019s medical officer of health.<\/p>\n

“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. 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.”<\/p>\n

The health unit has prepared instructions for businesses and organizations under the EMCPA, with the expectation that they <\/em>use their \u201cbest efforts\u201d 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur 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,\u201d said Dr. Gardner. \u201cRequiring 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

For more information about COVID-19, including frequently asked questions and signage for businesses, see www.smdhu.org<\/a> or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.<\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> What does the health unit\u2019s new mask requirement mean for you?<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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<\/broadstreet-zone>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

This information was released by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit on July 7. See the link at the bottom of the page for more in-depth coverage on Doppler. 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