COVID-19 Information and Updates

This page is a resource for up-to-date information on facilities, programs and services that may be impacted as a result of containment measures the Municipality has put in place to try and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Information from Health Officials may change and in turn may impact our operations.

This page will be updated regularly.

The entire Province of Ontario has moved into an Emergency Brake shutdown. The colour-coded COVID-19 response framework has been paused.

Vaccination Information

Book a Vaccination Appointment with Durham Region

Vaccination Clinic Schedule for North Durham effective March 29, 2021

Clinic hours are 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

North Durham Vaccine Clinic Schedule
Scugog Community Recreation Centre clinic date are listed below:
1655 Reach St. Port Perry, L9L 1P2

March 2021
Wednesday, March 31
April 2021
Thursday, April 1
Sunday, April 4
Monday, April 5
Friday, April 16
Saturday, April 17
Wednesday, April 21
Thursday, April 22
Sunday, April 25
Monday, April 26
May 2021
Friday, May 7
Saturday, May 8
Wednesday, May 12
Thursday, May 13
Sunday, May 16
Monday, May 17
Friday, May 28
Saturday, May 29
Visit the Durham Region COVID-19 Vaccines page for updates on the implementation plan

Durham Region COVID-19 Vaccination Transportation Options

Several free or low-cost transportation options are available to individuals looking to attend a vaccination clinic within Durham Region, if transportation is a barrier.

See transportation options for Durham Region COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

AstraZeneca vaccine available to individuals aged 55+ in select pharmacies

Pharmacy Associates of Port Perry Contact Information

Port Perry Remedy's RX Contact Information

Two pharmacies in Port Perry will be offering the AstraZeneca vaccine, as early as April 3, 2021, to adults 55 years and older. Vaccines are only available by appointment, no walk-ins will be accepted.
Visit Pharmacy Associates of Port Perry or Port Perry Remedy's RX to book a vaccination appointment online.
Pharmacy Associates of Port Perry
11 Water St. Unit B
905-985-9200
Port Perry Remedy's RX
1893 Scugog St.
905-985-3308

Recent Durham Region Vaccine Update

Health Department expands eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine to residents 60+
Whitby, Ontario, April 7, 2021 – Vaccination Eligibility expands to age 60+. Durham Region Health Department is expanding eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine to area residents 60 and older, or those who will be turning 60 in 2021. While the Health Department recently expanded eligibility to individuals in the Highest-Risk and High-Risk Health Conditions groups and residents in High Risk Congregate Living Settings. For a full list of current priority groups visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.
Eligibility for vaccine now also includes residents 50-plus living in “hotspots” in Ajax and Pickering in several postal code areas as identified by the province including L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z. Individuals in the identified hotspots must register for appointments at either the Ajax or Pickering clinics as appointments have been reserved at these sites and must show proof of address when arriving at the clinic.
Eligible Durham Region residents can book an appointment at www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment. Individuals who need assistance to book an appointment can call 1-888-444-5113. Bookings for both groups will open on April 8 at 6 p.m. for appointments that begin on April 13.

Durham Region residents are welcome to attend a clinic in any area municipality. Appointments are now available at Health Department clinics in Ajax, Clarington, Pickering and Whitby. These clinics operate daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Clinics in north Durham – Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge – operate on a rotating basis, with one clinic scheduled for Brock and two clinics each scheduled for Scugog and Uxbridge every week, these clinics all operate from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Residents are asked to book only one appointment per person. Also, if you already have an appointment and choose to book for another time or at a different clinic location, please remember to cancel the first appointment to avoid duplication, helping to ensure appointments are available for everyone.

It should be noted that while the province also has a provincial booking system for COVID-19 vaccination appointments, Durham Region residents who access the provincial booking system will be transferred back to the Durham Region booking system. It is recommended that area residents continue to use www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113 to book appointments.

The Health Department is still experiencing a shortage of vaccine. The ongoing operation of clinics is dependent on vaccine supply which is received from the province. For a listing of all clinic locations or for more information on the COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan for Durham Region visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.

For more information, please contact the Health Department

Read the full article on the Durham Region Website

COVID-19 Vaccine Facts and FAQ's

Durham Region Health Departments Facts and FAQ's on the COVID-19 vaccine

Durham Region Health Department Debunking the Myths on the COVID-19 vaccine

The Province of Ontario has declared for the third time a state of emergency in response to the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and the variants of concern (VOC). The province has issued a stay-at-home order that will take effect April 8 at 12:01 a.m. and last for four (4) weeks. Everyone is to remain at home with exceptions for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services, for exercise or for essential work.
Effective April 3, the COVID-19 Response Framework (colour-coded zones) is paused. We must all follow temporary restrictions and public health and workplace safety measures.
The impacts of these measures will be evaluated after one month to determine if it is safe to lift the restrictions or if they need to be extended.
It is illegal to gather indoors with anyone you do not live with.
You should only go out for necessities, such as:

accessing essential medical care
for essential work, if you can’t do so remotely
school or daycare
groceries
pharmacy and medications
helping vulnerable people
exercise and physical activity, walking pets

If you live alone, you can have close contact with only one other household.
You must stay at least two metres apart from everyone else and wear a mask or face covering during permitted events or social gatherings.
You should not travel outside your region or the province unless absolutely necessary.
All events and social gatherings:

Indoors: not allowed, except with members of your household (or one other household if you live alone)
Outside: 5 people

Religious, wedding and funeral services:

Indoors: 15% capacity of the room
Outside: the number of people that can keep two metres physical distance from each other
This does not apply to receptions, which have different capacity limits

Always:

stay home if you have symptoms, even if they are mild
stay two metres apart from people you don’t live with
wear a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces or any time physical distancing is not possible

The provincial emergency will operate under a Grey-Lockdown category (from the previous colour-coded zones) involving broad-scale measures and restrictions, across multiple sectors, to control transmission. For a full list of current restrictions, and business reopening guidelines, visit Ontario.ca/covidresponse

FAQ's for the Provincial Emergency and Stay-at-Home Order

Is travel within Ontario permitted?

Individuals and families should not travel to other regions except for essential reasons or when absolutely necessary.

When should individuals leave their homes?

Trips outside of the home should only be for essential reasons (essential work that cannot be done remotely, school and childcare, groceries/pharmacy, essential health care, assisting vulnerable individuals, or exercise and physical activity.

What are the gathering limits for organized public events and social gatherings?

Indoors: prohibited, except with members of your household (or one other household if you live alone)
Outdoors: 5 person maximum, except for gatherings with members of the same household (the people you live with) or gatherings of members of one household and one other person from another household who lives alone.

When do employees need to wear a non-medical face mask or face covering?

Employees performing work for the business or the organization in an indoor area that is accessible to the public, must wear a mask or face covering in a manner that covers the nose, mouth and chin. Employees must also wear a mask when working behind a plexiglass barrier and in areas that are not accessible to the public when 2 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Do employees need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Yes, when staff are working within 2 metres of someone not wearing a mask or face covering and are not separated by a plexiglass barrier, they must wear PPE that protects a person’s eyes, nose and mouth. PPE may include eye protection/face shield and a medical/procedure mask etc.

When do masks/face coverings need to be worn by individuals?

Individuals are required to wear a mask or face covering in the indoor areas of businesses or organizations that are open. Wearing a mask or face covering is also necessary outdoors when 2 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Do businesses and organizations have to conduct screening of employees and/or visitors?

Every person who works at the business or organization and essential visitors (e.g. individuals providing a service in the establishment who are not employees in the workplace such as delivery and maintenance people) must be actively screened before they enter the premises. The province has created a screening tool that can be used to screen workers.
All businesses and organizations must post signs at all entrances to the premises in a conspicuous location visible to the public, that inform individuals on how to screen themselves for COVID-19 prior to entering the premises.
Region of Durham Community and Reopening Tool Kit includes Signage and Resources.
For businesses and/or organizations that are required to actively screen patrons and/or customers the Province has developed a tool that can be used.

What businesses and organizations are required to actively screen patrons before entry into the facility?

The following businesses and organizations are required to actively screen patrons before entry:

Indoor malls
Restaurants, bars and other food and drink establishments (not required for take-out, drive through or delivery)
Sport and recreational fitness facilities
Meeting and event spaces
Personal care services
Casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments.

What is active screening as it pertains to COVID-19?

Active screening is a method to ensure people are not at risk or exhibiting symptoms or COVID-19 in determining if a person may enter the facility. Active screening can be done by telephone, app, questionnaire, interview etc.

What is a safety plan?

A safety plan is designed to reduce risk of COVID-19 transmission within the facility. A safety plan should include:

Screening people who enter the facility.
Supporting self-isolation for workers with symptoms and workers who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases.
Ensuring people maintain a physical distance of 2 metres or more.
Having workers, clients and visitors wear masks.
Disinfecting surfaces and objects.
Supporting hand hygiene, particularly handwashing.
Reminding workers about good cough and sneeze etiquette and to avoid touching their face.
Working with the local public health unit if any workers have COVID-19 or are exposed to someone with COVID-19.

What are the additional requirements for the safety plan?

A safety plan must be in writing and be made available to any person for review based on a request.
A copy of the safety plan must be posted in a conspicuous place where it can be viewed by staff and patrons.

Is there a safety plan template?

Yes, a template is available on the Provincial website.

The Health Department has created a COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan resource.

Status Provincial Emergency Orders and the Municipality

Durham Region has been moved into a Provincewide, Emergency Brake Shutdown
Please visit Durham Region Public Health for guidelines and recommendations regarding COVID-19.
Section 22 class orders and special instructions issued by the Durham Region Medical Officer of Health.

At the beginning of COVID-19, Scugog Mayor Declared a State of Municipal Emergency The state of emergency remains in place for Scugog. Scugog is part of the Durham Region Public Health unit.

Provincial Information and Supports

Ontario Vaccine Rollout Plan

Ontario Building On Supports for Employers During COVID-19 | Ontario Newsroom

Mental health, wellness and addictions support

Scugog continues to deliver services during COVID-19 Recovery Framework

Municipal Office - No public access, alternative service available

All services are available via telephone, email and/or electronic meeting. Please email or phone the department contact to make arrangements
No one is permitted to enter the building
Online payment options remain available
Drop-box and online payment options remain available
Lobby washrooms remain closed
Marriage License and Commissioner of Oath request services are limited to Scugog residents at this time. This will be reviewed when there is a change to the provincial shutdown restrictions.
All inspection requests for occupied buildings will be postponed to a later date
All structural inspections on unoccupied buildings will be inspected on site with only the inspector in the building

Fire Administration - No public access, alternative service available

All front counter services are available by telephone, email and/or electronic meeting. Please email or phone the department contact to make arrangements
Emergency calls will be responded to providing resources are available
Non-emergency calls may be handled without a response
Both stations are closed to the public
Legislated code enforcement inspections to be scheduled only. Inspections must take into consideration occupancy risk, inspector safety prior to scheduling an appointment. Virtual inspections are preferred
Meeting rooms are closed
Visitors must have an appointment and are limited to contractors providing maintenance or service

Visit the Fire and Emergency Services page for fire protection, prevention and emergency planning information

Scugog Community and Recreation Centre - No public access

All Community Centres and halls will remain closed to the public with the following exceptions:
- Scugog Community Recreation Centre will continue to house the vaccination clinic
- Prince Albert Hall will remain a COVID-19 assessment centre
- The Scugog Community Recreation Centre is a Regional run vaccination clinic site. Access to the building will be limited to those with an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine.
- All in person recreation bookings and programs will be cancelled and virtual options will be made available where possible. Visit the registration page for more information on virtual programs.
- A refund cheque will be mailed to you. Due to the quantities of refunds, please allow for 4-6 weeks for refunds to be processed.
- Other sports or games that are likely to result in individuals coming within 2 metres of each other may not be practiced or played

Blackstock Recreation Complex - Arena closed for 2020/2021 ice season

The Blackstock Arena, at 3440 Church Street in Blackstock, will remain closed for the 2020/2021 ice season due to lack of ice demands and physical distancing challenges in the facility.

For questions or additional information please contact recreation@scugog.ca

Community Halls and Meeting Spaces - No public access

All community halls and meeting spaces are available for government and health services only.

Limited to 10 people per facility indoors
Limited operating hours and must be closed by 10 p.m.
Limit of 4 people may be seated together

For information regarding community hall bookings please email recreation@scugog.ca.

Outdoor Recreation Amenities

The following Township of Scugog outdoor recreational amenities may open if they comply with COVID-19 health safety measures such as physical distance of at least 2 metres (6 feet) must be maintained.

Outdoor recreational amenities may be used in compliance with COVID-19 health safety measures such as maintaining a physical distance of at least 2 metres (6 feet), wear a mask or face covering and use hand sanitizer. Outdoor organized public events and social gatherings, where physical distancing can be maintained is limited to Maximum of five (5) people for any organized activity. Equipment is not sanitized.
Outdoor amenities include:
- Parks and recreational areas
- Trails
- Dog Park
- Baseball diamonds
- Soccer fields
- Tennis courts
- Basketball courts
- Skate parks
- Disc golf course
- Playgrounds
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Fishing and Boat Launch area

Team sports may not be practiced or played except for training (no games or scrimmages). Other sports or games that are likely to result in individuals coming within 2 metres of each other may not be practiced or played.

For information on sports field permits please email recreation@scugog.ca

Scugog Memorial Public Library

Library building will be closed to the public
Contactless pickup service is available in the lobby area
- If you prefer to continue using our Contactless Pickup service to receive your holds or print jobs, please let staff know when they call to inform you that you have an item waiting. Please click here for more information: http://www.scugoglibrary.ca/contactless-pickup.
Returned materials are quarantined before recirculating

Programs will continue to be offered via our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel.
Online collections will continue to be available 24/7, so now might be a wonderful time to check out our large collection of ebooks & audiobooks.

For the complete list of what you can expect when visiting the library, visit scugoglibrary.ca

Animal Shelter

The Animal Shelter is currently closed to the general public. Public access is limited to pet owners retrieving impounded animals and stray animal drop-off. Please call ahead to arrange. The shelter is still staffed to provide care for animals and Animal Control Officers are available to respond to urgent matters.

Public access is limited to pet owners retrieving impounded animals and stray animal drop-off. Please call Animal Control if you are in need of assistance.

Township of Scugog Services at the Municipal Office (181 Perry St. Port Perry)

Making Payments for Invoices and Taxes

Tax Payments may be made through the following options:

Township Office, drop box (drop box; cheque only, please include roll# and/or address)
Online banking
Telephone banking
Pre-authorized payment (PAP)
- applications are available online
- Request an application by email at tax@scugog.ca
Credit card payments – via a third party provider (see Scugog website)
By mail
Payments can also be made at your financial institution

Invoice Payments

Payments can be made at the Township Office in person or by using the drop box (drop box; cheque only please include invoice number)

Municipal Law Enforcement Protocol for COVID-19

Municipal Law Enforcement Officers have expanded authority to enforce Emergency Orders issued under the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Our Officers will work closely with Durham Regional Police to patrol the municipality and address issues and concerns related to the Province’s Emergency Orders.

Please be aware that failing to comply with any of the emergency orders is an offence under the
Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and subject to fines and/or jail time. Individuals are also required to accurately identify themselves to any person exercising a power under the Act. Failure to correctly identify oneself carries a fine of $750.

Municipal Law Enforcement staff are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm to assist with Covid-19 issues/concerns. You can report a violation of the Emergency Orders to the Township through our online portal (Report a complaint) or by calling 905-985-7346 ext. 121, or to Durham Regional Police at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5802.

Building Inspections

Inspection services during Red- Control Level for COVID-19 - Effective February 16, 2021
All structural inspections on unoccupied buildings will be inspected on site with only the inspector in the building. All required paperwork for the inspection shall be emailed to the inspector prior to the inspection.

All inspections shall be accompanied by a signed COVID checklist and shall be signed by both the inspector and the permit holder.
All inspection requests for occupied buildings will be postponed to a later date.
All structural inspections on unoccupied buildings will be inspected on site with only the inspector in the building. All required paperwork for the inspection shall be emailed to the inspector prior to the inspection.
Any enclosed unoccupied buildings required to have an insulation, plumbing or HVAC inspection will be inspected with only the inspector in the building.
All outdoor inspections will be performed on site and all participants shall follow the provincial mandated COVID precautions.
At no time shall documents be received on site. All inspection reports shall be emailed to the applicant.
All sites shall have clear and safe access for the inspectors and shall follow the occupational health and safety act regulations.
All scheduling inspection requests should be made 96 hours in advance when possible.

Please note any failure to follow the instructions of the province, building inspector or the provisions of the Ontario Health and Safety Act will result in the immediate termination of the inspection.

The Township of Scugog Building Department is taking every precaution to protect our staff and the public while trying to provide our essential services. We understand the needs of the residents in Township of Scugog and thank all who are following the provincial requirements.

All inspection requests will continue to be scheduled through the Development Services Associate at building@scugog.ca or by calling the Municipal Office at 905-985-7346 ext. 169.

Stay Connected - Local Resources for All Residents - Community Isn't Cancelled

Stay Connected Scugog
The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home and avoid making non-essential trips in the community. Here are some ways you can practice physical distancing, while staying connected socially.
Have ideas? Share them with us! Connect with us on Facebook @Township of Scugog and Twitter @TwpofScugog to share how you’re staying connected while doing your part to physically isolate.

We’re in this together – #CommunityIsntCancelled
We’re all in this together, you are not alone. Resources to continue to help you should you need them.

Durham Region COVID-19 Community Support Line
Community Support Service Agencies have come together to provide support to the Durham Region community during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Residents at risk can access support services by calling the Covid-19 Community Support Line, Toll Free, 1-888-332-3133
✔️ Grocery & Pharmacy Delivery
✔️ Meals on Wheels
✔️ Transportation Services
✔️ Dementia Support Services
✔️ Telephone Safety Checks
✔️ Respite

Durham Region CAREmongers
Are you isolated or home-bound? Do you need help? Volunteers are ready to assist you.
CAREmongers is a volunteer organization providing supports to get supplies to those in our communities who are quarantined or otherwise vulnerable, over 65 or immune compromised, in a safe and responsible way.
Durham Region CAREmongers are now available in North Durham.
Toll Free, 1-888-573-0982

Follow the prompted directions to select North Durham (Scugog)
If not connected to a live volunteer, and it is not an emergency, leave a message with your name, phone number and what you are needing help with and a volunteer will call you back.

Senior’s Reassurance Call-Out Program through Distress Centre Durham
TO REGISTER, CALL 905-430-3511

Free telephone support to seniors 55+ living in Durham Region
Regularly scheduled calls from trained helpline responders providing:
- emotional support
- safety check-ins
- medication reminders
- crisis support

Mental Health and Well-being Resources
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or need someone to talk to?
View the links below to find information and resources to support you.

#MindVine from Ontario Shores

Durham Region Mental Health Supports and Services

Canadian Mental Health Association – Durham
Durham Mental Health Services
Lakeridge Health

Local Businesses Supporting the Community

Canplex Profiles Inc. 905-985-2759, info@canplex.com, re-tooled to produce face shields to front line workers and the community.

Grocery and Pharmacy

There are several local businesses wanting to help, below is a list of businesses offering delivery and/or trunk pick up:

Vos’ Independent Grocer 905-985-9772, online ordering, call ahead for trunk delivery
Foodland 905-985-2159, offering home delivery for isolated residents
Canadian Tire 905-985-7341, online ordering and trunk delivery
Wal-Mart 905-985-1531, online ordering and trunk delivery
Shoppers Drug Mart Pharmacy 905-985-8886, prescription porch delivery available
Pharmacy Associates of Port Perry 905-985-9200, prescription porch delivery available

Local Restaurants

There are several local restaurants open and offering take-out and delivery food options.

** Thank you to the Port Perry BIA and The Focus for providing a list of some
of the local restaurants open and ready to serve you. **

Bamboo Kitchen And Bar, take-out only, call to order 905-985-6668
Captain George's Fish and Chips, take-out only, call to order 905-985-1022
Col. Mustards Pub & Grill, take-out only, call to order 905-985-0505
Foundry Kitchen & Bar, offering a limited take-out menu, Thursday, Friday & Saturday,
Call to order 905-982-2757
Horn Dawgs BBQ, take-out and delivery, call to order 905-982-8851
Jester’s Court, take-out and delivery, call to order 905-985-2775
Marwan’s Global Bistro/ The Port Social, take-out and delivery, call to order 905-985-7224
Old Flame Brewing Co., Shop online: shop.oldflamebrewingco.ca
Piano Café & Inn, Online pop-up shoppe- pianocafe.ca
Pickles & Olives, take-out only, call to order 905-982-1600
Port Perry Smokehouse, take-out only, online orders preferred thesmokehouses.com, 905-985-7813
Port Perry Thai, take-out and delivery, call to order 905-982-0101
Saffron Eatery, take-out only, call to order 905-982-1106, menu online saffroneatery.ca
The Pantry Shelf, take-out and delivery, call to order 905-985-1409, email order ebrowne928@icloud.com

Agriculture and Farm Stores

Our agriculture sector is strong in Scugog. There are several farms and farm markets open and ready to serve you with curbside pick-up, delivery and online orders:

Willowtree Farms, https://willowtreefarm.ca, order on-line, delivery or curbside pick-up, in store shopping available – physical distancing precautions in place
Yellowlees Family Farm, www.facebook.com/yellowleesfarm, pre-order by phone 905-986-0657, e-mail yellowleesfarm@gmail.com or through their online order form, e-transfers only, curbside pick-up at the farm
Trading Post Quality Foods, www.facebook.com/tradingpostquityfoods, place and pay for order on-site using tap payment, drive-through service, curbside delivery and in store shopping all available- physical distancing precautions in place
White Feather Farms, https://www.facebook.com/whitefeathercountrystore, Phone 905-655-4752 or email orders only whitefeatherfarms@hotmail.com
Herrington’s Quality Butchers, https://portperrybutcher.com , Phone 905-985-1456 and email brent@hqb.ca orders only, curbside pick-up
Zephyr Organics- Farm Share, https://zephyrorganics.com/how-to-order, online orders only, delivery and curbside pick-up
Brooks Farm order online https://www.madebyafarmer.com, Phone order 905-473-3246, offering curbside pick up
Otter Greenhouse, http://www.ottergreenhouses.com, Phone 905-982-4187, curbside pick-up only with tap payment
Century Green house, https://centurygreenhouses.com, Phone 905 985 2672 and email info@centurygreenhouses.com orders accepted, delivery, curbside pick-up and safe outdoor shopping available
Greenbank Garden Centre, https://www.greenbankgardencentre.com, Phone 905-985-7667, order over the phone, curbside pick-up
Wright's Feeds 'N Needs www.wrightsfeeds.ca, Phone 905-986-4201, pay with credit card, dock load
Port Perry Feeds https://ppf.ca, Phone 905-985-7363, order over the phone, trunk delivery

Scugog Chamber of Commerce - highlighting local businesses and how we can continue to support them
info@scugogchamber.ca 905-985-4971

Port Perry BIA- highlighting local businesses located in Downtown Port Perry, from Mary Street to Simcoe Street to North Street to Water Street. info@discoverportperry.ca 905-985-0814

Port Perry BIA have launched a gift card program. There are over 20 businesses to choose from, making it easier than ever to #SupportLocal from home. When you support small business everybody wins.
** For a limited time the Port Perry BIA will pay 30% as a THANK YOU for supporting our downtown!
Visit shopdowntownportperry.ca to purchase your gift cards online.

Region of Durham COVID-19 Information and Updates

Durham Region Public Health Information

Class Order issued by Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle on April 7, 2020
The Health Protection and Promotion Act authorizes the Medical Officer of Health to make a class order to address the risks presented by the potential spread of COVID-19 to residents of Durham Region.

Based on the continuing increase in the number of people contracting COVID-19 in Durham Region, and experiences in similar cities around the world, this is a targeted mandatory measure that will strengthen our ability to reduce the loss of life from COVID-19 and preserve and protect the capacity of our health care system to respond and to provide care for those who need it. While most people who have or may have COVID-19, as well as their close contacts, have been compliant with instructions from public health authorities to self-isolate, there are individuals who do not take these measures seriously enough. This class order is a legal tool to help us ensure that everyone who needs to, complies with the direction to self-isolate.

Status of Cases

There is increasing evidence of community transmission of COVID-19 in Durham Region. This means that the virus is spreading in the community.

The Health Department recommends that anyone who has mild cold or respiratory symptoms, such as a new cough, or sore throat be tested for COVID-19 and should self-isolate at home until while awaiting results.

If you develop worsening symptoms (fever, new or worsening cough or difficulty breathing) continue to self-isolate and seek clinical assessment using one of these four options:

Complete an online self-assessment.
Contact Durham Health Connection Line 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
Contact your primary care provider by phone.

The Durham Region Public Health Department is actively following up with all close contacts of positive cases. Individuals who were not in direct or close contact with the cases are not considered at risk of being infected.

Status of Cases in Durham Region updated daily.

DRPS Protocol for COVID-19

In Durham, we have a centralized response to complaints regarding Social Distancing and violations of the Emergency Measures in place for COVID-19 and a dedicated enforcement team tasked with dealing with these issues. While we welcome these complaints and reports in any forum, please be aware that we will be forwarding your concerns and issues to the COVID team for action, as directed by our Emergency Operations Centre.

Information for Businesses on Compliance

Call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659 for clarification whether a situation falls under the non-compliance orders. Assistance is available Monday to Sunday, from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information visit: ontario.ca/stopthespread.

Report non-compliant residents and businesses

Online at www.drps.ca under Online Services - Community Concerns
By phone using the non-emergency line at 1-888-579-1520

The DRPS will endeavor to respond to these calls in a timely manner, however, their focus continues to be on emergency calls for service.

Report Price Gouging

Reports regarding price gouging must go directly to the Province of Ontario. File a complaint at 1-800-889-9768 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, or file a report online here

COVID-19 Business Resources

Information for Businesses on Compliance

Need Answers to Small Business Health and Safety Questions?

Provincial Employment Standards Call Centre (webes@ontario.ca)
Occupational Health and Safety Contact Centre (webohs@ontario.ca)
More information available at covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-help-businesses-ontario

Resources on Government Programs, Services and Supports for Businesses

There are resources and information for businesses in Durham Region regarding government programs, services and supports available during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is updated at least daily. investdurham.ca/covidresponse

Invest Durham has put out information on where PPE is available and other health and safety information useful for when businesses will be able to open.
COVID-19 – Government Announced Supports updated for May 6, 2020
Financial supports for businesses available through the Workplace Safety Insurance Board’s Health and Safety Excellence Program
Other supports for businesses

Government Educational Resources

Free webinars on how to operate a business safely and comply with health and safety requirements during COVID-19
Free 30-minute online course on infection prevention and control provided by the Public Services health and Safety Association

Health and Safety Guidance and Resources

Please use official sources of information if you have questions
about COVID-19

Are you feeling unwell?

If you develop worsening symptoms (fever, new or worsening cough or difficulty breathing) continue to self-isolate and seek clinical assessment using one of these four options:

Complete an online self-assessment.
Complete an online registration form with Lakeridge Health for a COVID-19 screening and assessment
Contact Durham Health Connection Line 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
Contact your primary care provider by phone.
- Port Perry Medical Associates are booking online appointments; visit this website and follow the prompts https://portperrymedical.ca/

COVID-19 Virus Facts and FAQ's

Facts about the COVID-19 virus, variants of concern (VOC), self monitoring, testing, outbreaks and more can be found through the Durham Region Health Departments COVID-19 Facts and FAQ's.