KFL&A Public Health issues stern reminder on self-isolation requirements

Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Public Health is reminding people with COVID-19 symptoms or a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis to self-isolate for 14 days.

“We will have no problem restricting and charging individuals who do not adhere to this order, to ensure that those who need to self-isolate do so, for the protection of all residents in our community,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Public Health’s Medical Officer of Health. “Especially if these individuals have already been advised, contacted, and we have information that they are leaving their home.”

According to Public Health, a Class Order issued on Tuesday, Jun. 30, 2020 under to Section 22 of the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act enforces self-isolation requirements for individuals residing in or present in the KFL&A region who:

• are identified as a person diagnosed with COVID-19,
• have the signs or symptoms of COVID-19, have similar signs or symptoms, or who have tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting results,
• otherwise have reasonable grounds to believe they have symptoms of COVID-19, or
• are a close contact of a person identified in (a) or by KFL&A Public Health.

KFL&A Public Health notes that self-isolation is generally for a period of 14 days from the first onset of symptoms, from testing or from diagnosis with COVID-19, whichever is earliest. In some cases, public health officials may direct an individual to extend the period of isolation, depending upon symptoms and test results.

Public Health says individuals who are affected by the class order are required to remain in their place of residence. If a person with COVID-19 is homeless, or their home is otherwise unsuitable or unsafe for isolation, Public Health says they will be provided appropriate safe accommodation.

“Self-isolation means not leaving home at all or having any visitors except as permitted by KFL&A Public Health,” said their press release Friday. “People in self-isolation should arrange to have groceries and other necessities delivered to them.”

Public Health says the class order will remain in effect until Dr. Moore determines that it is no longer required. Individuals who are required to self-isolate, as identified under this class order, and who do not do so can be charged and fined up to $5,000.00 per day. Public Health can order police assistance when individuals do not willingly comply.