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.

COVID-19 News

See below for the latest update on capacity limits and proof of vaccination lifting in municipal facilities

July 28 - COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Children Six-Months to Under Five-years Old

In line with the recent announcement from the province, Durham Region Health Department will be offering paediatric Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for children six-months to under five-years old. Appointments for this age group will be held at local immunization clinics. Bookings will be available starting at 8 a.m. on July 28. To book an appointment, visit durham.ca/VaccineAppointment. Residents can also receive COVID-19 vaccine at several locations throughout Durham Region including at select health care providers and participating pharmacies.

The COVID-19 paediatric Moderna Spikevax dose for children six-months to under five-years old is administered in a two-dose series. The recommended interval between the two doses is eight weeks (56 days). Children six-months to under five-years old who receive paediatric Moderna Spikevax for their first dose are recommended to receive paediatric Moderna Spikevax for their second dose. While there may be a small risk of myocarditis and/or pericarditis with Moderna Spikevax vaccine which has been documented for adolescents and young adults, the associated risks in children six-months to 11-years old is unknown. Parents/guardians who have questions about the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine are encouraged to contact their health care provider.

In addition, starting on July 28, youth 12 to 17-years old who are moderately to severely immunocompromised will be eligible for a second booster dose (fifth dose) of Pfizer Comirnaty vaccine. The interval for a second booster dose for this age group is recommended at 168 days (six months) after the first booster dose (fourth dose). Bookings for second booster doses for this eligibility group will open on July 28 at 8 a.m.

To book an appointment and for clinic locations and hours, please visit durham.ca/VaccineAppointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Appointments will be required for COVID-19 vaccines for children six months to under five-years old and for immunocompromised individuals 12 to 17-years old at this time. For more information on COVID-19 vaccines in Durham Region, visit durham.ca/COVIDVaccines.

July 15 - Ontario Government Expands Second Booster Dose Eligibility to Anyone Age 18+

Appointments for second booster doses are now available to individuals 18 and older.

"The Health Department is expanding availability for a fourth dose (second booster dose) of COVID-19 vaccine...residents can now book appointments at select health care providers, participating pharmacies and community immunization clinics..." - Dr. Robert Kyle, Commissioner & Medical Health Officer.

The full message as well as a link to book an appointment can be found here.

March 28 - Mayor Drew Officially Terminates the State of Pandemic Emergency for the Township of Scugog

On Monday, March 28, 2022, Mayor Drew officially terminated the state of pandemic emergency for the Township of Scugog:

“This has been a long two years and I am thankful to the Township of Scugog, Durham Region and the upper levels of government for seeing us through. I am very proud of our Scugog council, our staff, our business community, and our residents for their resilience these last two years. As a Township we adapted, placing the health and well-being of our community first as we continued to provide superb service delivery to the community. I am grateful that the vast majority of people in our community met the challenges of the pandemic with co-operation, grace and respect for others. Our resolve and our love for one another shone through and though many plans and events were cancelled due to lock downs we proved that our sense of community would never be cancelled. We rose to the challenge making masks, volunteering to deliver food and essentials to those in need of assistance. Scugog had one of the lowest per capita Covid and variant cases in Durham and I credit all of you for heeding the public health regulations, for being responsible, and following the ever-changing orders to keep everyone safe. Our pandemic emergency has ended. I wish you all the very best – take care and stay safe.” – Mayor Bobbie Drew

March 21, 2022 - Mask Requirements and Remaining Capacity Limits to be Lifted in Scugog Facilities

Effective March 21, 2022, to coincide with the province, mask mandates will be lifted for patrons and visitors of Recreation facilities and the Township Municipal Office. Additionally, on March 14, the province lifted remaining capacity limits on all indoor public settings. Outdoor gathering limits have also been lifted.

For the public, wearing a mask will be optional. Scugog facilities will transition to a mask-friendly environment. Please have respect for patrons and staff who continue to wear a mask after March 21. We continue to urge patrons to please refrain from visiting our facilities if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

For your convenience, virtual services will continue to be offered. However, if you would prefer to meet with staff, we recommend you make an appointment for in-person services to ensure appropriate staff are available. Please visit Scugog.ca/contact to make an appointment.

March 1, 2022 - Scugog to Remove Proof of Vaccination Requirements for the Public in Municipal Facilities

Given public health and health care indicators continue to improve, the following public health and workplace safety measures will come into effect on March 1, 2022.

Capacity limits lifted in all indoor public settings
Proof of vaccination requirements lifted, with businesses being allowed to implement them voluntarily
Other protective measures, such as mask/face covering requirements and active/passive screening of patrons, will be in place
Public health units can deploy local and regional responses based on local health indicators

In addition, patrons are required to self-screen before entering Scugog facilities. Please do not attend our facilities if you are feeling unwell.

February 15, 2022 - Scugog resumes in-person services at municipal office along with increased capacities for sports and recreation facilities

Scugog – Effective Thursday, February 17, the Township of Scugog Municipal Office and Fire Administration will re-open to in-person services. As well, capacity limits will be removed for select public settings such as events and meeting spaces, sports and recreational facilities. As our office re-opens to in person services, health protocols and procedures will be in place.

What can you expect when visiting the Municipal Office?

Please screen yourself for COVID-19 symptoms before entering the municipal office
Masks must be worn, and physical distancing must be maintained
Please enter using our main doors, on the west side, facing Perry Street
Please exit through the rear door located on the east side of the building, facing the back parking lot
For individuals with accessibility needs, entrance and exit will be available through the main entrance. Please call 905-985-7346 should you need assistance
Signage will be up, throughout the building providing information on procedures while in the Municipal Building
Public washrooms remain closed

Appointments are advised for the following services, to ensure appropriate staff are available:

Clerk services such as marriage licences
Finance services such as to review the roll book or speak with the tax collector
Development services such as planning review, building permit review
By-Law services to obtain parking passes, a by-law dispute or an early resolution

To make an appointment with staff for virtual or select services, please visit the staff directory at scugog.ca/contact.

Please complete our COVID-19 screening form http://covidassessment.scugog.ca/ before coming to your appointment. Once complete, you will get a checkmark validating you are okay to attend the office in person. You will need to show this to staff upon arrival.

Walk-ins will be accepted for the following services:

Payments of, taxes, parking tickets, application fees
Purchasing Durham Region Transit Presto passes, recycling and compost bins, and emergency numbers
Submission of a written correspondence, Freedom of Information requests, Commissions, or any documents that cannot be submitted digitally
Public Works permit applications such as road occupancy, culvert and special events

The document drop box will continue to be in place for those wishing to drop off documents or payments and limit in person contact. The drop boxes will be moved to the front lobby, which will be accessed through the Perry Street doors.

Durham Region Health Department water sample bottles and sewage disposal applications can be dropped off in the back hall. Please use the main entrance, follow the arrows through the lobby, to access the bottles and the drop off cooler. For questions regarding the water sample program, please call 905-985-4889 to connect with the Durham Region Health Department.

Scugog Community Recreation Centre, Halls, Meetings and Event space

Effective February 17, the province is removing capacity limits in the following indoor public settings where proof of vaccination is required. The Township of Scugog will be implementing the following changes:

Scugog Arena spectator areas remains at 50 per cent capacity
No capacity requirement for non-spectator areas for sports and recreational facilities
Enter the main entrance to access Pad 1, Pad 2 and Recreation programs
Staff to check proof of vaccination, as well as:
- Active screening prior to entry to the facility
- Masks must be worn
- Use hand sanitizer
- Maintain 2m / 6ft physical distance
- Capacity limits lifted for meeting and event space, events with dancing or food may require additional protocols, limits on capacity and safety plan

The Township of Scugog continues to follow provincial and regional guidelines as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though walk in services are available at the municipal office, we continue to encourage residents to book an appointment ahead of time or to access virtual services where applicable. Depending on provincial and regional information, access to facilities is subject to change. For a full list of virtual services, visit scugog.ca/covid19.

For information on provincial restrictions, please visit the Government of Ontario's website.

Keep up to date by following our social media channels on Twitter @TwpofScugog and on Facebook @TownshipOfScugog.

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

Scugog Clinic options include select dates at the Scugog Community and Recreation Centre, Scugog Library, Nestleton Community Centre, local pharmacies, and pop-up locations. Location dates and eligibility groups may change, please visit the Durham Region vaccination calendars for upcoming clinic dates: COVID-19 Community Immunization Clinics for age 12+ and 5 to 11 COVID-19 Immunization Clinic Calendar.

COVID Vaccination Clinics

Durham Region Community Clinics for ages 12+

Book a Vaccination Appointment with Durham Region

or call 1-888-444-5113 to book

View the Community Immunization Clinic Calendar for ages 12+ on the Durham Region Health website.

Durham Region Immunization Clinics for Children age 5 to 11

Book a Vaccination Appointment with Durham Region

or call 1-888-444-5113 to book

View the 5 to 11 COVID-19 Immunization Clinic Calendar on the Durham Region Health website.

Pharmacies

Select pharmacy locations in the Durham Region are administering vaccines to individuals 5 years of age and older. Most pharmacies book appointments ahead of time and some allow walk-ins. Check with the pharmacy before you go. See what pharmacies are offering vaccines in Scugog.

Provincial GO-VAXX Program

Learn more about the Provincial GO-VAXX Program

The Ontario government has partnered with Metrolinx to provide a safe, reliable and convenient option for people to receive their COVID-19 vaccine. GO buses have been converted to serve as mobile vaccine clinics to get COVID-19 vaccines directly to people, wherever they are located – travelling to malls, festivals, community hubs and events across Southern Ontario and beyond.

All GO-VAXX buses are providing the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for first, second, third and booster doses for adults and youth ages 12 and up, as well as the paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11. Each bus carries up to 300 doses per day.

The buses are fully accessible.

Vaccination appointments are subject to vaccine supplies controlled by the province.

What are the COVID Restrictions in Scugog?

Find out below!

Location

Current COVID Protocols

Municipal Office (181 Perry St)

What can you expect when visiting the Municipal Office starting March 1?

Please screen yourself for COVID-19 symptoms before entering the municipal office
Masks must be worn, and physical distancing must be maintained
Please enter using our main doors, on the west side, facing Perry Street
Please exit through the rear door located on the east side of the building, facing the back parking lot
For individuals with accessibility needs, entrance and exit will be available through the main entrance. Please call 905-985-7346 upon arrival for assistance
Signage will be up, throughout the building providing information on procedures while in the Municipal Building
Public washrooms remain closed

Click here to screen before coming to your appointment. Once complete, you will get a checkmark validating you are okay to attend the office in person. You will need to show this to staff upon arrival.

Services Available by Appointment

Appointments are advised for the following services to ensure appropriate staff are available:

Clerk services such as marriage licenses
Finance services such as to review the roll book or speak with the tax collector
Development services such as planning review and building permit review
By-Law services to obtain parking passes, a by-law dispute, or an early resolution

Visit scugog.ca/contact to connect with staff and make an appointment

Walk-in Services Available

Walk-ins will be accepted for the following services:

Payments of taxes, parking tickets, and application fees
Purchasing Durham Region Transit Presto passes, recycling & compost bins, and emergency numbers
Submission of a written correspondence, Freedom of Information requests, Commissions, or any documents that cannot be submitted digitally
Public Works permit applications such as road occupancy, culvert, and special events

Durham Region Health Department Water Bottle Samples

Durham Region Health Department water sample bottles and sewage disposal applications can be dropped off in the back hall of the municipal office. Please use the back public entrance to access the bottles and the drop off cooler. For questions regarding the water sample program, please call 905-985-4889 to connect with the Durham Region Health Department.

Scugog Community & Recreation Centre

Starting March 1:

Capacity limits lifted in all indoor public settings
Proof of vaccination requirements lifted, with businesses being allowed to implement them voluntarily
Other protective measures, such as mask/face covering requirements and active/passive screening of patrons, will be in place
Public health units can deploy local and regional responses based on local health indicators

Community Halls, Meeting Rooms and Event Spaces

Starting March 1:

Capacity limits lifted for meeting and event space; events with dancing or food may require additional protocols

Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor recreational amenities are permitted and must adhere to health protocols

Scugog Memorial Library

Full access to library shelves is available and we have resumed newspaper service
Full access to public computers, printing & photocopying is available
Socially-distanced study and lounge space is available
Room bookings will be limited to our small study rooms (with a 2 person limit)

Click here for more information on Scugog Library services available.

Blackstock Recreation Complex

The Blackstock Hall is open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for the Blackstock Walking Program.

Proof of Vaccination Information

Township of Scugog Vaccination Policy

Click here to view the Township of Scugog's Vaccination Policy.

COVID Vaccination Information

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ's

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

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 recommended outdoors when 2 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained or when passing by others.

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 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.

Region of Durham COVID-19 Information and Updates

Visit durham.ca/covid19 for the most recent updates on COVID-19 in Durham Region, and to access resources for businesses

COVID-19 Business Resources

Advice for personal service settings

Advice for retail businesses

Advice for restaurants and bars

Advice for event and meeting spaces

Advice for gyms, sports, recreational facilities and amenities

See additional sector specific guidance

Information for Businesses on Compliance

COVID-19 Guidance and Advice for Businesses and Organizations

Additional sector specific infographics for Activities/Studios, Outdoor Recreational Amenities & Sport, Restaurants & Bars, Retail) located through the above link.

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, please visit: ontario.ca/stopthespread.

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.