The Ontario government will begin easing COVID-19 restrictions at the end of the month, starting with increasing the maximum size of gatherings and allowing some businesses to reopen, with some capacity limits.
Starting January 31, restaurant dining rooms, fitness centers, movie theaters, museums and zoos — which have been closed since the beginning of the month — will be able to reopen at 50% capacity.
Spectator areas at sporting events, performance venues and theaters will be able to operate at half capacity, up to a maximum of 500 spectators.
Additionally, the size limit for private gatherings will be increased to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors, up from five people indoors and 10 outdoors since January 5.
Premier Doug Ford indicated Thursday that he is announcing a phased reopening plan as public health indicators begin to show signs of improvement. He clarified that there would be 21 days between each new stage of reopening, if health trends do not become concerning.
Other relaxations at the end of February
So, on February 21, the maximum size of gatherings is expected to be further increased, to 25 people indoors and 100 outdoors.
The capacity limits would be lifted in establishments requiring the vaccine passport, including restaurants, gymnasiums and cinemas. Sporting events, performance venues and theaters could open with 50% capacity, with no maximum.
Finally, on March 14, capacity limits would be lifted in all indoor public places and limits on indoor private gatherings would be raised to 50 people, while there would no longer be limits on the size of outdoor social gatherings. .
Ontario reported Thursday 4,061 people hospitalized with COVID-19 and 594 patients in intensive care.
The number of hospitalizations therefore fell for a second consecutive day, compared to a peak on Tuesday of 4,183 patients. The intensive care occupancy rate continues to increase, however, by five patients this time.
The government is also reporting 75 new deaths related to COVID-19, some of which occurred in early January.
Health Minister Christine Elliott said Wednesday that provincial health officials saw “glimmers of hope” in the fight against the Omicron variant. She said the number of new infections is expected to peak this month, which should reduce pressure on the healthcare system some time later.
Minister Elliott added that many challenges will remain during the month of February, but that the network should be able to treat patients.