York Region Public Health is issuing an order to increase pandemic requirements in child care settings starting Monday, Sept. 20.
In response to increasing COVID-19 transmission rates in York Region, particularly in children under the age of 12, medical officer of health Dr. Karim Kurji issued the letter of instruction that will require daily screening to be confirmed using York Region's screening tool, daily attendance records and prohibiting non-essential visitors and more, according to York Region spokesperson Patrick Casey.
The instruction was sent to owners/operators of licensed child care centres, licensed home child cares, EarlyON Child and Family Centres, as well as before and after-school programs within schools and educational settings.
The region said the letter comes in response to issues with screening in these spaces.
"York Region Public Health is noting more individuals not following daily screening instructions and sending their children to child care centres and home child cares while they were experiencing symptoms of COVID-19,” the region said.
The letter also specifies that staff in these spaces must wear masks, ensure distancing between cohorts, and co-operate fully with York Region Public Health. However, masks and distancing were already mandated by the province.
Ontario’s public health rules already require screening, but York’s screening tool also includes symptoms of runny nose and sore throat that Ontario’s does not. Ontario’s rules also currently allow for some visitors, while York’s rules will not.
Individuals who do not comply may be liable to a fine up to a maximum of $100,000, or for a corporation, up to $10,000,000 for each day the offence occurs.
Earlier this month, York Region issued an order requiring contact tracing lists at social gatherings, including private ones.
The region said everyone has a role to play in keeping the community safe.
“As cases are increasing in York Region and with the risk of the highly contagious delta variant, it is more critical than ever we continue following all public health guidelines including self-isolating when you or a member of your household is sick."
