COVID-19 Updates

Local Updates

Barrie passes lowest tax hike in 20 years.

For the average Barrie home (includes town homes, apartments & detached homes) assessed at $367,550, this increase translates to an additional $40.71 annually.
Covid-19 'virtual' Town Hall meeting tonight

Members of the public are invited to join the event to learn valuable information about the community response to COVID-19, mental health resources, vaccination rollout, as well as how to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy during the ongoing pandemic
2nd outbreak declared at RVH

Patients and impacted staff who work on the unit have been swabbed and are being monitored closely for any symptoms.
Outbreak declared over at GBGH in Midland

The outbreak, which was initially declared on December 4, included the hospital’s 2 North inpatient unit.
Covid-19 outbreak declared at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH)

Seven patients who recently received care in one section of the 40-bed unit have tested positive for COVID-19, along with two staff members who are safely self-isolating at home.
Better news froom GBGH outbreak. Another unit cleared

The 2 North inpatient unit is now the only remaining area of the hospital still considered to be in outbreak.
We've gone to Red Zone ! What does that mean?

The Red level means broader-scale measures and restrictions across multiple sectors to control transmission of the virus. Restrictions are the most severe available before widescale business or organizational closure.
Tighter visitor restrictions at OSMH, pro-active measure

As a pro-active measure in light of the increased prevalence of COVID-19 cases throughout the region, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH) announced today it is returning to a more restrictive visitor policy effective
Covid update at GBGH. Contact tracing in high gear

Contact tracing for current patients and staff is being completed through the hospital’s Occupational Health and Safety and Infection Prevention and Control departments.
New rules for employers in Simcoe-Muskoka.

Instructions for Additional Public Health Measures in the County of Simcoe, the District of Muskoka and Cities of Orillia and Barrie.
Covid outbreak declared over at Simcoe Manor

We will continue to support our staff across all our homes in their steadfast commitment to fight against the spread of COVID-19,” said Warden George Cornell. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of our residents who passed away.
Wasaga Beach bans spectators from arena, launches live stream

n order to comply with the new ‘Orange’ COVID-19 status for the region, effective immediately spectators will no longer be allowed in the Wasaga Stars Arena. At the same time, the town is planning to roll out a new free livestreaming service so that our community can watch on-ice activity at the arena.
RVH opens additional Covid test clinic in Innisfil

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) has partnered with the Town of Innisfil to provide greater access to COVID-19 testing for residents in south Simcoe County.
Barrie helps businesses with economic recovery

As the pandemic continues, the City recognizes evolving challenges to Barrie businesses brought on by COVID-19.
Orillia Remembrance service cancelled, pre-taped for TV

For the health and safety of all those involved, and in keeping with expert advice from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU), the 2020 Remembrance Day Services at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH) have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Barrie's Remembrance day guidelines. No cenotaph ceremony

There will be no public ceremony at the Memorial Square cenotaph, as has been tradition in previous years, and residents are advised against gathering at the Memorial Square cenotaph on November 11.
Georgian College to have virtual convocation

The college is hosting its first-ever virtual convocation ceremonies this month to recognize almost 2,000 graduates
Drive through assessment centre opens in Wasaga Beach

As part of ongoing efforts to keep the South Georgian Bay community safe from potential spread of the COVID-19 virus, a new Drive Through COVID-19 Assessment Centre will open in Wasaga Beach on October 21, 2020
Province gives RVH control of Simcoe Manor LTC

This follows last Friday’s order by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit directing RVH to oversee infection control response to the outbreak which was declared October 2nd.
A 'Covid' charge laid in Adjala-Tosorontio after party at a rental place

the Nottawasaga OPP responded to a noise complaint and report of a large gathering of people at an address of a short-term rental property on Concession 4 in Adjala-Tosorontio.
RVH Covid test site closes, all operations moving to Sperling Dr.

As of Thursday, October 1, the COVID test clinic at RVH will close, with all drive-thru testing, including booked appointments, being done at the Sperling location.
GBGH eases visitor restrictions

This is an increase from one visitor per patient per day. Inpatient visits will also no longer need to be booked in advance during specific blocks of time.
Mid-Pen Transit resumes schedules, fares as of today

Mid-Pen Transit Service to resume regular schedule and collecting fares. With safety protocols in place and options for fare payments now available, on Monday, August 24, Mid-Pen Transit Service will resume its regular schedule and begin collecting fares from transit ride.
County clothing and electronics collections cancelled

The special collections were set to occur between August 31 and September 25. (On June 23, Council voted to postpone clothing collection from its original June date)