COVID-tests by appointment only, regional restrictions in Ontario

TORONTO — Ontario is making COVID-19 testing available by appointment only, requiring masks in all public indoor spaces, and tightening restrictions on businesses in virus hotspots.

The measures announced Friday come as the government has faced growing criticism over crippling lines at assessment centres, a ballooning testing backlog, and a surge in cases. At least one local medical officer of health and two medical groups called for tougher action in hardest-hit areas.

Premier Doug Ford said the latest moves were based on the latest evidence.

“We have made some tough but necessary decisions always based on the best medical advice and scientific evidence available,” he said.

The government also said it is putting a “pause” on 10-person social bubbles.

It said that all Ontarians should only have close contact with those who live in the same household and people should maintain a two-metre physical distance from everyone else. Those who live alone can consider having close contact with another household, the government said.

“All we’re saying is just be careful,” Ford said. “Just keep your circles tight.”

Ontario reported a record 732 cases Friday and a backlog of 90,513 tests.

For weeks, the majority of new cases have been reported in Toronto, neighbouring Peel Region and Ottawa, and Ford said immediate action was required in those areas.

In those areas, restaurants, bars, banquet halls and gyms will all face restrictions on their operations.

No more than 100 customers will be allowed in restaurants and no more than six people will be permitted at a table. Restaurants will also be required to collect contact information from all patrons to bolster contact tracing.

Toronto’s medical officer of health called on the province to do more, suggesting it ban indoor restaurant dining, close gyms and ask people to only leave their homes for essential trips.

Dr. Eileen de Villa said while she has some authority to make such changes under existing public health regulations, she received legal advice that it would be “unprecedented” for a local medical officer of health to enact such broad changes.

“I am therefore urging you to act in collaboration with the City of Toronto to implement these measures in as timely a fashion as possible,” she said in a letter to the province.

Both the Ontario Hospital Association and the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario have called for tougher restrictions on hotspot regions.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 2, 2020.

Shawn Jeffords and Paola Loriggio, The Canadian Press