Covid 19 Update July 16, 2021

COVID-19 Update from Mayor Wade Mills July 16, 2021

There were only 159 new COVID-19 cases reported in Ontario today as the province enters into “Step 3” of the re-opening plan. Province-wide, our cumulative reported totals are now 547,864 cases, 537,176 resolved cases, and 9,285 reported deaths. There are currently 159 patients hospitalized with the virus with 158 currently in ICU and 112 on ventilators. It is also being reported that over 60% of Ontario adults have now been fully vaccinated which is a promising milestone.

Within the Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health region, we have seen an additional 12 new cases reported since yesterday. We currently have 59 active cases throughout the region. There are currently six health unit residents in hospital. Within Dufferin County specifically, we have had three new cases reported within the last 24-hour period. Our current active case count stands at eight for the county and there a no Dufferin County residents being reported as in hospital. I am also happy to report that there are still no active cases being reported within the Town of Shelburne.

As of 12:01 am this morning, Ontario entered into “Step 3” which is five days earlier than originally planned. This transition allows for indoor gatherings of up to 25 people and outdoor gatherings of up to 100. Indoor dining is permitted once again with no set limits on the number of people per table. Gyms are now permitted to be open with 50% capacity indoors. Retail and personal care establishments can be open without capacity limits so long as the 2m physical distancing requirements can be maintained. Indoor venues such a theatres and concert halls are open up to 50% capacity or a maximum of 1,000 people. A full list of what is now open can be obtained at: Ontario.ca/reopen  As we start to enjoy these amenities, please be patient with business owners and other patrons.

On a personal note, I would like to thank the outstanding staff and volunteers who are managing our public health vaccination clinics. I received my second dose of Pfizer this past Wednesday and the whole process was entirely seamless and (mostly) painless. I am heartened to see the number of people getting vaccinated and encourage each and one of you who are eligible to get it done.

Be well,

Mayor Wade Mills