Citing a high vaccination rate among residents, the provincial government is ending several COVID-19 restrictions at nursing homes across the province.
In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government said it will be taking a phased approach to updating COVID-19 measures for people living in, working in or visiting long-term care homes.
“Ontario has reached a point where it can begin a safe, cautious and balanced reduction of public health measures in long-term care homes across the province,” said Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore.
Beginning on March 31, long-term care homes will no longer be required to test staff, caregivers and visitors who are asymptomatic, and residents will no longer need to have daily temperature checks or screenings following an absence.
In addition, the province will be removing the limit of one caregiver at a time for residents during a COVID-19 outbreak or isolation.
Wearing a mask outdoors is no longer recommended for residents, caregivers and visitors, the province said. However, masking requirements will remain in place inside all long-term care homes.
The Ontario government is also encouraging homes to end any vaccination requirements and allow all visitors and staff, regardless of vaccination status.
“The health and safety of residents remains paramount, and we will continue to work with the sector to ensure residents and their families receive the level of care they need and deserve, in a safe and comfortable environment,” said Dr. Moore.
The province said loosening COVID-19 measures at nursing homes will align Ontario with several other provinces, including Quebec, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.