Halton issues self-isolation order with threat of fines

OAKVILLE — Halton Region Public Health is imposing mandatory self-isolation rules on individuals who might be infected with COVID-19 and is promising hefty fines for those who fail to comply.

The legal order is issued by Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s medical officer of health, aims to protect the community from potential exposure to COVID-19 by ensuring those who need to self-isolate will do so — especially as more restrictions are lifted. It’s also to preserve and protect the health care system, the document states. “The number of cases and deaths continues to rise in Halton region,” she said.

Until further notice, those who fit the criteria below are required to “isolate yourself immediately” for 14 days:

> are diagnosed with COVID-19;

> have been tested for COVID-19 and are waiting for test results;

> have one or more symptom (s) of COVID-19 or have had symptom(s) in the past 14 days, including fever, new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and more;

> are a close contact of someone as identified above;

> are a parent or caretaker of someone as identified above.

Halton public health can charge those who don’t follow the order under Ontario’s Health Protection and Promotion Act with a penalty of up to $5,000 a day. Health officials will work with the individuals to ensure voluntary compliance.

Exceptions will be given to the following:

> a person who, in the opinion of the medical officer of health, provides an essential service;

> a person receiving essential medical services or treatments;

> where a person’s isolation, in the opinion of the medical officer of health, would not be in the public interest.

“The requirements specified in this order are necessary in order to decrease or eliminate the risk to health presented by this communicable disease,” Meghani writes in the order, noting “the spread of COVID-19 is of immediate and compelling public health importance in Halton Region.”

For questions, contact public health at accesshalton@halton.ca or call 311 or the toll-free number 1-866-442-5866. Information about the order, full list of symptoms and how to selfisolate can also be accessed at halton.ca/COVID19.