Ontario's medical officer of health had some special instructions for Thanksgiving dinner and Halloween parties and trick-or-treating in his weekly update today.
Dr. Kieran Moore reminded Ontarians to stick to gathering limits, keep up with handwashing, and considering keeping masks on indoors where there are unvaccinated people gathering with vaccinated people.
More than once through his update, Moore urged people to stay home if they are feeling any symptoms of illness.
"No one should attend a gathering if they are sick, even with mild symptoms," said Moore.
He repeated his guidance teased earlier this week suggesting vaccinated people could feel free to remove their masks in indoor settings where those present have also been vaccinated.
In situations where groups are mixed with vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, though, Moore recommended masking indoors.
"Make your event as safe as possible," said Moore.
For Halloween, Moore said trick-or-treating would be safest outdoors and that trick-or-treaters should wear masks.
"But remember, a costume mask is no substitute for a face covering," said Moore.
He suggested trick-or-treaters avoid crowding doorsteps by taking turns, keeping interactions brief, and maintaining physical distancing.
For those considering attending or hosting Halloween parties, the same guidance offered for Thanksgiving applies.
Weddings
Moore made special mention of wedding receptions, noting there have been several outbreaks associated with wedding receptions recently.
He reminded people that as of Wednesday, Oct. 13, those attending wedding receptions will be required to show proof of vaccination. There is an exemption in place currently allowing people to show a negative COVID-19 test to attend a reception event. However, that exemption expires on Tuesday.
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