Manitoba announced on Friday, December 17, 2021, that they will be tightening restrictions across the province due to the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
“This is difficult, especially around the holidays, but it is a necessary step. Once again, we must ask Manitobans to do more. In addition to following these new orders, I encourage every Manitoban eligible to get their first, second or third dose to keep themselves safe,” said Health and Seniors Care Minister Audrey Gordon.
Effective at 12:01 am Tuesday, December 21, 2021, capacity restrictions will move to 50 per cent for restaurants and bars, gyms, movie theatres, libraries and museums. Restaurants are also limited to no more than ten people at a table and patrons must remain seated.
Outdoor gatherings are limited to 50% capacity or a maximum of 50 people, whichever is less.
Indoor gatherings in public places are restricted to those who are fully vaccinated and 25% of capacity or 25 people whichever is less.
Gatherings in private residences are limited to those who live in the household and 10 other people as long as everyone is vaccinated. If anyone is unvaccinated that number drops to five additional people.
Large indoor events are limited to 50% of capacity.
Sports tournaments are not permitted under the new rules but games and practices are allowed. The number of spectators is capped at 50% capacity.
Gatherings for faith based events is limited to 50% capacity if everyone is fully vaccinated but only 25% or 25 people if proof of vaccination isn’t required.
“We are seeing concerning numbers now, particularly with the omicron variant. Projections clearly show more challenges ahead for our individual health, to our communities and for our health-care system as a whole. We need to take further steps to curb the situation,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer.
The new restrictions will be in place until January 11, 2021.
© News4.ca 2021
