COVID-related public health restrictions have eased somewhat as of today.

The Avalon Peninsula is now in Alert Level 4 while the rest of the province shifts into Alert Level 3.

Restrictions in Alert Level 4 are not that much different from Alert Level 5. However a household bubble can be expanded slightly to connect with a family member when necessary or provide support for someone who is isolated.

Outdoor activities are permitted, but indoor recreational facilities remain closed. Child care services can now operate at full capacity, but restaurants, bars, and cinemas remain closed to the public.

Restaurants can provide take-out, delivery, and drive-thru service. Retail stores and shopping malls can open at 50 per cent capacity.

For areas outside the Avalon, people can expand their household bubble to a total of ten close, consistent contacts, something Dr. Fitzgerald calls your “Tight Ten.”

Gyms and indoor recreational facilities can reopen to a maximum capacity of 20. Restaurants can open to 50 per cent capacity, while bars, lounges, and cinemas remain closed.

The situation will be reassessed as case counts dictate.