COVID 19 Update October 9, 2020

COVID-19 Update from Mayor Wade Mills October 9, 2020

Ontario has hit a new record with today’s increase to the daily case count of 939.  Province-wide, our cumulative reported totals now sit at 57,681 cases, 49,032 resolved cases, 2,997reported deaths, and 225 current hospitalizations.

Although not as dramatic, we are also seeing concerning increases more locally. Within the Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health region, we have 14 new cases with the past 24 hours bringing our cumulative totals to 713 cases, with 46 active cases and no current hospitalization. Within Dufferin County, our cumulative total now sits at 230 cases which is up by four from yesterday. There are currently 9 active cases being reported within Dufferin but still no hospitalizations are being reported.

After an emergency Cabinet meeting this morning, the Premier has announced new measures in direct response to the surging numbers Province-wide. Toronto, Ottawa, and Peel Region will be moved back into a “modified Stage 2” just after midnight tonight for the next 28 days. This includes the closure of indoor restaurants, gyms, theatres, casinos, performing arts and racing venues. Schools, child-care centres, and places of worship will be permitted to remain open. Team sports games and scrimmages on the other hand are being prohibited. Gathering limits in these areas are being reduced and those residents are being told to leave their homes only for essential purposes. At this point, the government is not imposing a travel restriction on residents in the three “hot spot” areas, but they are being advised to limit their travel to other regions. 

As we head into Thanksgiving weekend, local public health officials (including our own) are also urging Ontarians to rethink their traditional plans. WDG Public Health is asking residents to keep indoor celebrations limited only to members of the same immediate household. They are also suggesting that outdoor gatherings may be a safer way to celebrate with family members outside of the household. As I mentioned in my video Thanksgiving message earlier today, I am confident that Shelburne residents will make the responsible and appropriate decisions for their families and for our community.

However you are celebrating this weekend, please be safe and stay well.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mayor Wade Mills