Region of Waterloo extends mask by-law as COVID-19 cases increase

Waterloo Region – Regional Council voted today to extend the face covering by-law in Waterloo Region to May 31as cases of COVID-19 in the community continue to rise.

“Face coverings are one of many ways we work together in our community to try to limit the spread of COVID-19,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “Extending the by-law enables us to keep our community running while protecting each other.”

Council also voted today to add taxis, ride sharing vehicles, and common areas in apartments and condominiums to the list of places where masks are required. These changes take effect September 28. Details are available on the Region’s website.

The Region of Waterloo is one of 430 municipalities across Ontario that have face covering policies in place.

Public health experts suggest COVID-19 could spread more easily during the cold weather. Cases of influenza and other respiratory viruses could also add pressure on the health care system if more people become seriously ill with COVID-19.

In addition to masks, Region of Waterloo Public Health continues to encourage people to wash their hands, maintain physical distancing, and to stay home when they are sick.

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 For more information, please contact:

 Bryan Stortz, Director, Corporate Communications Region of Waterloo

email bstortz@regionofwaterloo.ca