COVID-19 Information

Changes to public health and workplace safety measures

The following changes to public health and workplace safety measures are in effect as of March 21, 2022.

  • general masking requirements will be lifted; however, masking will still be required in certain indoor settings, including:
    • public transit, including indoor areas and vehicles. This does not include businesses or organizations that provide sightseeing or touring services
    • health care settings including:
      • hospitals
      • psychiatric facilities
      • doctors’ offices
      • immunization clinics
      • laboratories
      • specimen collection centres
    • home and community care provider locations only if you are an employee or contractor
    • long-term care and retirement homes
    • shelters and other congregate care settings that provide care and services to medically and socially vulnerable individuals

For a complete list of settings and exceptions to masking requirements that may apply, please refer to O. Reg. 364/20.

Visit the face covering and masking page, for additional information including wear and fit.

Also as of March 21, 2022:

  • passive screening of individuals prior to entering a business will no longer be required
  • businesses and organizations that are open will no longer be required to prepare and make available a safety plan

Booster Doses Available Now For Those Aged 12-17

As of 8:00 a.m. on Friday, February 18, 2022, Ontario is expanding booster dose eligibility to youth aged 12 to 17. Appointments can be booked through the provincial booking system and the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre, as well as at select pharmacies administering the Pfizer vaccine. Appointments will be booked for approximately six months (168 days) after a second dose. To book an appointment online, these individuals must be 12 years old at the time of appointment. 

For more information, please read the news release.

Book a COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment

If you still need your first or second or booster dose, book now.

Book an appointment online

Call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 to book over the phone. This line is available 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 7 days a week.

Learn about vaccine safety

 

Book a vaccination appointment by visiting Waterloo Region Public Health and Emergency Services or by calling 519-575-4400.

  • For questions concerning wait times or appointment confirmation, please contact Public Health.

 

Support for Businesses

 

Support for Students and Parents

The Childcare Access and Relief from Expenses (CARE) Tax Credit is being topped by 20% for 2021, which on average will provide families with $1,500. This credit can be claimed on your personal income tax return for 2021.

 

Support for People

Learn what financial, mental health and other supports are available during COVID-19.

 

Support for Workers

Need paid sick leave? Find out about the Ontario Worker Protection Benefit and apply for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB).

Guidance for health care workers and others who are on the job.