No new COVID-19 outbreaks at sports facilities in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon since start of vaccination rules

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Published November 16, 2021 at 2:06 pm

Peel Public Health (PPH) says it’s too early to “fully quantify” the impact of its proof of COVID-19 vaccination requirements at indoor sports facilities in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.

As of November, anyone aged 12 and older entering hockey arenas, fitness centres and other facilities in Peel is required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a valid medical exemption.

Health officials previously said the facilities were “locations of concern” for the spread of COVID-19, with at least three outbreaks linked to youth sports tournaments involving Peel residents since August.

PPH said there have been no new tournament outbreaks since the sport facility proof of vaccination requirements came into effect but added it’s “too soon” to fully measure the impact of the new policy.

But PPH pointed to a decline in Peel’s incidence rate over the past several weeks as proof that vaccination policies are contributing “to keeping COVID-19 exposure low.”

According to PPH there have been COVID-19 cases and transmission at recreational facilities associated with classes containing children under 12.

PPH said getting vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19 and it’s hoped that the approval of pediatric vaccines will help reduce transmission in youths under 12.

“We expect that having children aged 5-11 fully vaccinated will reduce COVID-19 transmission overall in our community, and in settings where children typically congregate,” the statement reads.

PPH said there have only been a few “very few minor issues or disruptions related to the vaccine requirements at indoor sports facilities” since the requirements were put in place.

On Friday, PPH granted a grace period on the proof of COVID-19 vaccination requirements at indoor sport facilities for kids turning 12 next year.

PPH said the grace period will allow children enough time to have a full course of vaccinations while continuing to participate in indoor activities.

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