Public Health and Infection Prevention Measures

Public Health Measures and Restrictions

Visit Ontario’s COVID-19 public health measures and advice for current measures in place.

Section 22 Orders and Letters of Instruction

Under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act, a medical officer of health can issue an order to “require a person to take or to refrain from taking any action in respect of a communicable disease.”

WDG Public Health’s Section 22 orders regarding face coverings lifted on March 21, 2022 in alignment with the province. There are no current Letters of Instruction or Section 22 orders in effect.

General Infection Prevention Measures

Here are some simple everyday things you can do to protect yourself and others from the getting or transmitting COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wear a mask when in:
    • Crowded spaces with many people nearby.
    • Close contact, especially with close conversation.
    • Confined and enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.
  • Maintain 2 meters distance from others.
  • Stay home when you are ill.
  • Use rapid tests or get a PCR test if eligible.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands.
  • If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces like door knobs, toilet seats, light switches, etc.
  • Wipe down phones, computers and other devices regularly with alcohol wipes.
  • Follow instructions for symptoms, positive cases and contacts.

Hand hygiene

Hand hygiene refers to removing or killing germs on the hands. When done correctly, hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of diseases and infections like COVID-19. You can wash your hands either using soap and running water, or with alcohol-based hand rubs.