Non-Medical Masks and Face Coverings Mandatory While in Indoor Places Accessible to the Public
Today, Dr. Gardner, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer, issued instructions to ensure the mandatory use of non-medical masks or face coverings within most public and enclosed indoor spaces.
The following statement is being issued on behalf of Doctor Charles Gardner, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer:
“My rationale for proceeding with this course of action at this time is as follows: As we proceed through the stages of the province’s plan to open the economy there is an increasing risk of resurgence of COVID-19 transmission in our communities. There have been very worrisome examples of resurgence internationally, and we have had some experiences of limited resurgence in Ontario (including in recent weeks in Simcoe Muskoka).
With the summer upon us, Simcoe Muskoka is experiencing the arrival of a large and increasing number of visitors from parts of the province with a much higher incidence of COVID-19, and with resultant crowding in public spaces. There is emerging evidence, primarily based on ecological studies and modelling, suggesting that COVID-19 transmission rates can be reduced with a high level of population compliance of face covering/non-medical mask use in conjunction with physical distancing, hand sanitation, and self-isolation and testing when ill. Voluntary compliance with mask use in indoor public places appears to be suboptimal at this time in Simcoe Muskoka.
There has also been a high degree of support expressed from community partners, physicians, hospital leadership, some in the business community, and municipal CAOs and politicians for leadership from SMDHU to require face coverings/non-medical masks in indoor public places”
If you have any questions regarding the mandatory use of non-medical masks or face coverings please contact Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.