Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed is admitting that he is relieved the region will finally move to Stage 3 of reopening its economy.
However, Ahmed wanted to stress to residents Monday morning the virus has not gone away.
"Physical distancing will continue to be the key to prevent any transmission," he said. "Face coverings will add another layer to protection to the physical distancing measures, and more most importantly, stay home if you are sick and get tested for COVID."
Other jurisdictions have seen cases spike when the economy entered Stage 3, and Ahmed wanted to stress there are strict rules for restaurants and bars, which will now be able to welcome some patrons inside.
"All patrons are required to be seated at all times in both indoor and outdoor areas," reminded Ahmed. "Bars and restaurants, as well as tour boat operators, must keep a log of clients for a period of 30 days."
The logs will help public health officials trace anyone who comes in close contact with an infected patron while visiting those establishments.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit reported 11 new cases of COVID-19 Monday for a total caseload of 2,379. Of those announced Monday, five are in the agri-food sector, and four are in the community. The other two cases are still under investigation.
The number of active cases in the region continues to drop. Health unit CEO Theresa Marentette said there are 173, with 155 people self-isolating and eight cases in the hospital. So far, 89 per cent of all cases reported locally is considered resolved.
Across Ontario, there were 115 new cases on Monday. So far, 90.6 per cent of all cases across the province are considered resolved.
