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Ontario restricts publically funded PCR testing

December 30, 2021

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TORONTO — Here are some of the changes the Ontario government announced Thursday to its response to the COVID-19 pandemic:

_ On Dec. 31, publicly funded PCR testing will only be available for high-risk individuals who are symptomatic or are at risk of severe illness from COVID-19, as well as vulnerable populations.

_Those with symptoms should assume they have COVID-19 and isolate at home.

_ Most individuals with a positive rapid antigen test will no longer be able to get a PCR test to confirm the results.

_ Isolation period for those with COVID-19 will drop to five days from 10 for those who are vaccinated and children under 12 years old. Household contacts must also isolate.

_ Isolation ends after five days if symptoms have improved for at least 24 hours.

_ Individuals who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or immunocompromised will be required to isolate for 10 days.

_ School will resume on Jan. 5, two days later than originally scheduled.

_ School staff will have access to N95 masks and the province is rolling out 3,000 more HEPA filter units.

_ Only low-contact indoor sports and safe extracurricular activities will be temporarily permitted beginning in January.

_ Large indoor venues such as arenas, concert venues, and theatres are limited to 1,000 spectators.

_ Smaller venues remain limited to half capacity.

_ Fourth doses of an mRNA vaccine will be available to residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, Elder Care Lodges and other congregate care settings if at least three months, or 84 days, have passed since the third dose.

_ The province is mandating third doses for all staff, students, volunteers, caregivers and support workers by Jan. 28, 2022.

_ Long-term care visitors will be required to show proof of a booster once the pause on visitation is lifted.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 30, 2021.

The Canadian Press