Lifting stay-at-home order 'not a return to normal' for Waterloo region: Dr. Wang

The stay-at-home order has been lifted for Waterloo region as of 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, but the region's medical officer of health warns people still need to limit trips outside the home.

The province announced on Friday Waterloo region will enter the red zone of the COVID-19 colour-coded framework. It means more stores can be open, but with capacity limits.

"This does not represent a return to normal and this is not a broad reopening. We must be extremely cautious as we emerge from the stay-at-home order," Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang said during a media briefing on Friday.

Wang said it's "imperative" people continue to stay home unless it's necessary to go out, such as for appointments, work or to get groceries. She said people need to avoid close contact with others outside of their household and work from home when possible.

"We know what happens when people increase their mobility and their social interactions. We also now have variants of concern, in addition to the regular variant," Wang said.

Provincial modelling has projected the variants may make up five to 10 per cent of all cases right now.

"We have made significant gains, but maintaining those gains relies on our continued commitment to strictly adhering to these measures. They are our best defence against COVID-19, including the variants of concern," Wang said.

Businesses should review framework

Starting Tuesday, grocery stores, convenience stores and pharmacies are allowed to operate at 75 per cent capacity while all other stores must be at 50 per cent capacity. As well, services like hair dressers and barber shops — which have been closed — can open under the red zone.

Regional Chair Karen Redman noted businesses should review the new guidelines for being open and ensure they have safety plans in place.

"Businesses really need to look at the new framework. It has been modified, it's been revised so the rules will be different," she said. "I would imagine our enforcement partners will have to do some education, as well."

Redman added the province has indicated provincial inspectors will be returning to the region in the coming weeks after a weekend blitz in January.

That blitz found 55 per cent compliance rate at big box stores, other retailers and convenience stores in Waterloo region.