April 14th Newsletter

Rapid testing kits now available again from GNCC

The GNCC is pleased to announce that it has received new stock of rapid testing kits from the Government of Ontario, and is able to resume taking orders for rapid antigen testing kits. Businesses and non-profits with fewer than 150 employees can obtain free tests for their workforce under this program.

Demand for kits remains extremely high, and if you need tests for your organization, we recommend booking as quickly as possible.

Click here for more information and to reserve testing kits.

Ontario increases access to antivirals, PCR testing in response to sixth COVID wave

Effective immediately, the following higher-risk groups are eligible to be tested and assessed for antiviral treatments, such as Paxlovid, in Ontario:

• Individuals aged 18 and over who are immunocompromised (have an immune system that is weakened by a health condition or medications);
• Individuals aged 70 and over;
• Individuals aged 60 and over with fewer than three vaccine doses; and
• Individuals aged 18 and over with fewer than three vaccine doses and at least one risk condition (e.g., a chronic medical condition)

Anyone who is eligible for an assessment is now also eligible for a PCR test at any testing centre in Ontario.

Individuals can access Ontario’s antiviral screener tool to help determine if they are at higher risk and should be assessed for treatment.

Chief medical officer of health Dr. Kieran Moore says COVID-19 trends are rising and it’s clear Ontario is in a sixth wave driven by the BA.2 variant, and he says that will likely continue for several more weeks.

Moore says he will not be bringing back mandatory masking right now, though Ontarians should be prepared for that to return if a new variant of concern emerges, if the health-care system is threatened due to rising cases, and potentially during the winter months.

Moore says he strongly recommends people continue to wear masks in indoor public spaces.

Ontario launches new website for businesses to cut red tape

The Ontario government has launched its new Ontario.ca/business website, one of the initiatives being implemented as part of the Fewer Fees, Better Services Act.

This new resource is the first step towards creating a single window for business that will reduce administrative burdens and make it easier for Ontario business owners and entrepreneurs to access the information and services they need to get up-and-running, create jobs, and grow their business.

Access the website at Ontario.ca/business.

Niagara Health will permit one visitor starting April 14

Starting Thursday, April 14, only one visitor or Essential Care Partner (ECP) will be permitted at the bedside for inpatient units, including Labour and Delivery and NICU. There is no change for outpatient, Emergency Department (ED) and Urgent Care Centres (UCC), where patients can continue to bring one person to support them.

Click here to read more.