Ontario government pauses further lifting of capacity limits as COVID-19 cases rise

The Ontario government says it is pausing the further lifting of capacity limits in “remaining higher risk settings” as COVID-19 cases rise in the province.

In a news release issued Wednesday afternoon, the government said the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” as officials continue to monitor health trends.

“An increase in cases was always expected as more people move indoors due to the colder weather and as the province eased measures,” the statement said.

“However, out of an abundance of caution, existing capacity limits and physical distancing requirements for higher-risk settings where proof of vaccination is required will remain in place to ensure the province has the required time to better understand any potential impact on hospitalizations and ICU admissions.”

On Monday, capacity limits were set to be lifted in food and drink establishments with dance facilities (like nightclubs), wedding receptions in event spaces where there is dancing, strip clubs, sex clubs, and bathhouses.

The government said the decision to hold off on further reopening was made in consultation with chief medical officer of health Dr. Kieran Moore.

Moore will “continue to monitor the data for the next 28 days to determine when it is safe to lift capacity limits in these settings,” the statement said.

More to come.