As Ontario begins the first stage of returning to normal, the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit is following suit, rescinding its public health order regarding secondary residences.
The HNHU says that effective immediately, the occupancy of secondary residences in the region by those who live outside of their jurisdiction is not restricted.
That being said, those who live outside of Haldimand and Norfolk are still being asked to postpone their visit to the area.
If that is not possible, they ask that visitors limit their non-essential travel once they arrive.
Chair of the Haldimand-Norfolk Board of Health Kristal Chopp explains that there is still concern about the potential for a second wave of the disease to hit the community.
However, she adds that personal property rights and their importance in society are one of the main reasons she ran for public office.
A release from the Health Unit explains that there has been an average of less than one positive case of COVID-19 in the region per day.
That’s a far cry from the single-day peak that saw 21 cases identified.
The Health Unit continues, saying there are around 300 people currently in self-isolation between the two counties.
In total, more than 3000 residents have self-isolated during the pandemic.
Haldimand-Norfolk Medical Officer of Health Dr. Shanker Nesathurai gave his thoughts on the decision during a phone call with us.
His full comments can be heard below.
This story was updated at 5:25pm on Friday with Dr. Shanker Nesathurai’s comments.