March 23, 2020 – Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health is strongly recommending that personal service businesses, outdoor play areas and event venues close until April 5, 2020 to support social distancing and help limit the spread of COVID-19.
“Our second confirmed case had no travel history or contact with a confirmed case which is evidence that community transmission of COVID-19 is occurring in our area,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health. “I would like to recognize the many businesses that have changed their hours and operations to control the spread of this disease. Additionally, many individuals and families have changed their habits and are practicing social distancing to keep themselves and others safe. However, not everyone is taking these important actions and at this critical moment stricter measures are necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to save lives. It is for these reasons that today, I am recommending the closure of all personal service businesses, outdoor play areas and event venues within Wellington County, Dufferin County and the City of Guelph.”
Personal service businesses include, but are not limited to, hair and nail salons, tattoo parlours, barber shops, cosmetic clinics, gyms, massage clinics and fitness facilities. Event venues include, but are not limited to, banquet halls and conference centres. Outdoor play areas include children’s park play structures and skate parks but do not include trails and green spaces.
Restaurants, bars and food establishments providing take-out or delivery services are not covered by this recommendation.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health urges everyone to make efforts at social distancing. This means maintaining a safe distance (2 arms length or 2 metres) away from others whenever possible. Please limit your travel outside of your residence to things that are necessary to your family such as food and medical care while maintaining social distancing. Avoid visits to hospitals, long-term care homes, or retirement homes unless absolutely essential. In particular, avoid congregating in groups outside of your family in any setting outdoors or indoors.
“I recognize that what is being asked is difficult. However, we need to work together as individuals, families and organizations to prevent the spread of the virus and save lives. Wash your hands often, stay home when possible, practice social distancing when you do go out and cancel non-essential events and appointments. And if you feel ill stay home to keep others safe. Now is the time to act to make the biggest difference in the spread of this disease.”
Media Contact
Chuck Ferguson
Manager, Communications
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4374
chuck.ferguson@wdgpublichealth.ca
www.wdgpublichealth.ca