On August 17, 2021, Chief Medical Officer of Health Kieran Moore said that vaccination rates saw a “sudden drop-off” in the last few weeks. He also explained that the Delta variant accounts for more than 90% of detected virus samples in Ontario. Hospitalizations and transmissions are on the rise. At the moment, the province has administered at least a single dose to eligible people twelve years and above.
This is why Ontario has stayed in Step 3 of its reopening plan. It involves the enforcement of physical distancing rules and mandatory masking indoors. There is a cap of 100 people at outdoor public events and social gatherings, while the limit stands at 25 people for indoor gatherings. Restaurants, museums, and other sectors also have capacity rules.
Canada plans to move into Step 4 of the reopening plan on September 7 at the earliest. The borders will fully reopen to fully vaccinated foreigners on this day. This is going to come into effect “provided that Canada’s COVID-19 epidemiology remains unfavorable.” This means that the schedule might still change depending on new developments. Keep an eye on announcements to ensure that you have the latest information.