While the term “social circle” is certainly not new to our vernacular, it has taken on an important new meaning.
As the cases of COVID-19 continue to decline in Ontario, Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, updated public health advice to allow ‘social circles’ of up to 10 members, including family or friends from outside of your home. That’s 10 people in total, including your family.
One of the most difficult parts of COVID-19 has been distancing ourselves from family members and good friends with whom we don’t reside. Understandably this has been stressful for everyone. This new decision supports the mental health and well-being of Ontarians and helps reduce the burden of social isolation.
Firstly, you are allowed to be in just one social circle. Think about the people who visit your home on a regular basis, or the family you’ve been missing. Invite them into your circle. With everyone’s commitment to being in just one circle, physical distance is no longer required with these chosen few. That’s right – hugging is allowed!
We must continue to follow practices like good handwashing, maintaining physical distance outside our circle and following all other health advice.
Please take great care in inviting those into your circle if they are over 70 years of age, immunocompromised or have an underlying health condition.
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, you must self-isolate immediately, inform members of your circle and get tested by visiting the assessment centre closest to you. The structure of social circles allows for quick contact tracing, should an outbreak happen within your circle.
Social circles are not be confused with the recent social gathering announcement which has also increased to 10 people. You can now get together with 10 people for a social gathering, but you must maintain a physical distance of two metres for any social gathering.
I hope that you had a Happy Canada Day, Cobourg!
— Mayor John Henderson