COVID-19: Here's what you need to know as APH enters the yellow zone

Today, the shutdown and stay-at-home order lift for Algoma Public Health's jurisdiction.

As of 12:01 a.m. this morning, the area moved into the Yellow - Prevent level of the province's COVID-19 Response Framework.

The yellow zone focuses on 'strengthened measures, enhanced targeted enforcement, fines, and enhanced education to limit further transmission of COVID-19. Public health measures will be applied in 'high risk settings,' the province says. 

As a reminder, here are the restrictions APH will be under within the yellow zone:

• Limits for certain organized public events and social gatherings such as functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, barbeques or wedding receptions held in private residences, backyards, or parks, where physical distancing can be maintained:
  • 10 people indoors
  • 25 people outdoors
• Limits for organized public events and gatherings in staffed businesses and facilities, where physical distancing can be maintained (including cinemas, business meeting spaces, and performing arts facilities):
  • 50 people indoors
  • 100 people outdoors
• Limits for religious services rites or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services, where physical distancing can be maintained (applies in any venue other than a private dwelling):
  • 30 per cent capacity of the room indoors
  • 100 people outdoors
• Restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments are permitted to reopen so long as patrons are seated with a two metre minimum between tables. There will be a limit of six people allowed to sit together, and buffet style service will not be permitted. Establishments must be closed from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. and liquor can only be served between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Dancing, singing and performing music is permitted with restrictions. 
• Sports and recreational facilities are also permitted to reopen, with limited capacity per venue and physical distancing in play (unless engaged in a sport). A maximum of 50 people are permitted per sports league.
• Retail stores are permitted to reopen, with limited fitting rooms.
• Casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments are permitted to reopen without table games at a limited capacity.
• Personal care services, except for steam rooms, saunas, and oxygen bars, are permitted to reopen.

A full break down of the province's framework levels is available here.