Starting Thursday, the province is introducing further restrictions at long-term care homes.
Access to these facilities by general visitors is being paused due to the evolving Omicron situation, announced Rod Phillips, Minister of Long-Term Care today (Tuesday).
Designated caregivers will be allowed to enter long-term care homes, however day absences for all residents for social purposes is also being paused.
These are in addition to policies introduced earlier this month including the requirement all visitors must be fully vaccinated.
The province is also requiring all staff caring for a resident with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 to wear a fit-tested, seal-checked N95 respirator.
Phillips cautioned, the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant will likely mean staff being exposed to or contracting COVID-19 in the community and more outbreaks in long-term care homes.
“We know these measures are difficult for residents and families, but we must stand strong to protect our most vulnerable, which includes residents of long-term care homes,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health.
Phillips advised the situation will be monitored and measures will be adjusted as necessary.
