Vaccination mandate coming for indoor sports in Burlington, Milton, Oakville
Published October 19, 2021 at 12:18 pm
Beginning Nov. 26, there are going to be more than just slap and wrist shots at indoor sporting events in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills.
On that date, anyone aged 12 and over, including all participants and spectators, will need to be fully vaccinated, or have a valid medical exemption.
“I recognize the importance of sports and recreational activities to physical and mental health for children of all ages,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health.
Meghani said organized sports and recreational fitness activities, however, bring with them specific risks, including high exertion and close contact that can increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
“Halton Region has experienced sports-related outbreaks, and recent outbreaks across the province demonstrate that this potential remains of significant public health concern.”
Those affected can include participants, coaches, officials, spectators and beyond, including throughout the province where these activities involve participants, teams, coaches, officials, spectators and others from outside Halton Region.
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Everyone entering the building will need to present identification and proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or a valid medical exemption, each time they enter.
“While I cannot provide you with an end-date for these instructions, I assure you I will monitor local, provincial and national developments relevant to the spread of COVID-19 in Halton, as I have to date, and adjust our course accordingly,” said Meghani.
“I may amend these instructions, if required, and will rescind them as soon I determine they are no longer necessary.”
For more information, residents can visit the region’s website.
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