Despite PCR and waste water testing that show an increase in COVID activity, hospitalization rates remain steady and manageable, meaning the provincial government is moving forward with a further easing of COVID restrictions.

287 new confirmed cases of the virus are being reported today, with 17 people in hospital.

206 people have recovered from the illness leaving 1,902 active cases in the province.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald says because Omicron is very different from previous variants of concern, the province is moving ahead with a sustainable approach to restrictions.

She says guidance on close contacts are changing as of tomorrow with full details available on the government website.

Household contacts of someone with COVID-19 who are fully vaccinated and do not have symptoms can follow modified isolation for five days, with testing.

That means you can attend work, school, day care or after school programs, but you must otherwise isolate.

As of Monday capacity restrictions on businesses and gatherings are easing again depending on vaccine.

Masking and physical distancing are still required.

Those with questions are asked not to contact 811, but email covid19info@nl.gov.ca or visit the government’s webpage.