EVERYONE OVER 70 SHOULD NOW SELF-ISOLATE

QUEEN’S PARK — If you’re over age 70 — you’re in for a long haul.

Today, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health recommended that everyone over 70 years of age or with a compromised immune system should self isolate as well.

“Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19 – there is no option for anyone to opt out,” said Dr. David Williams in a statement.

Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Norman Miller reiterated the message, imploring people to follow the advice of our provincial, federal and local chief medical officers.

“If you have been out of the country you must self isolate for 14 days. This means stay in your own home away from anyone except other members of your immediate household. Do not go to the grocery store, work or anywhere else,” said Miller. “Arrange to have essentials delivered.”

Williams also recommended that everyone else should stay home except for essential reasons, such as to access health care services; shop for groceries; pick-up medication at the pharmacy; walk pets when required; and support vulnerable community members with their essential needs.

And he reminded Ontarians to limit these essential trips and adhere to physical distancing reducing exposure to other people outside of their household by keeping two metres from other people.

“We can only beat COVID-19 if we all work together by staying apart,” said Miller. “These measures will slow the spread of the virus, reduce the number of people who get sick and reduce the load on our healthcare system.

“I want to thank everyone who has been taking precautions and doing everything they can to stay in and avoid unnecessary contact with other people.

“I know that is difficult but we need to keep it up. And to anyone who has not been taking this seriously, now is the time. You need to act to protect yourself, your family and friends, and your community.

“Do your part – stay apart.”