For the first time in two years Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are waking up in a province not under a public health emergency.
The order was lifted at 12:01 a.m. on the two-year anniversary of the province’s first known COVID case, and with it goes most of the public health orders around masking, distancing, and capacity limits.
Not all aspects of life have returned to complete normalcy, however, as masking remains in healthcare facilities and schools for the time-being, and vaccination mandates remain for now as well as they were introduced under regulations rather than public health orders.
However, Health Minister John Haggie cautions that the lifting of restrictions is contingent on COVID not throwing us any curveballs.
He says it is something to keep an eye on. Nothing may happen, but the province needs to be prepared should that be the case, noting that they’re hoping for the best but planning for the worst.
As for what’s next in the COVID response, Health Minister John Haggie believes there will be a gradual change in the way testing is conducted. Haggie says people who want a test for travel purposes may be directed to use rapid tests. He also thinks the process for getting a COVID test for medical purposes may be similar to how things are done now for the flu.
While most public health measures imposed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 are lifted, don’t toss that mask just yet. Many businesses, organizations and public spaces still require that masks be worn.
Masks are still mandatory in the school system until at least the Easter break, while they are also required in health care facilities.
Anyone visiting Motor Registration and Government Service Centres across the province will also be required to wear a mask for the time-being. That includes in waiting areas or other places where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Masks will also be required when in a vehicle with a driver examiner.
Certain businesses and workplaces may also continue to require masks to be worn.
Public Health officials are still strongly recommending that masks be worn in public areas.
All the restrictions around public transit in metro are off, including masks, but Metrobus still recommends that you wear a mask and maintain physical distancing.
