Kingston area public health is limiting the number of people allowed to gather to five, in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Monday, the health unit imposed a Section 22 Order within the City of Kingston. It will last from 6 p.m. Monday until 11:59 a.m. Dec. 20.
They say the order has been issued due to the recent increase in cases is due to the Omicron variant.
“These revised restrictions will help to ensure protection in our community, keep our schools and businesses safe and open, and prevent an impact on our emergency health care resources within the City of Kingston,” the health unit said in a news release.
In addition to the gathering limits, restaurants will not be able to offer indoor dining between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Take-out is still permitted.
Alcohol may only be purchased between noon and 9 p.m. daily, and all patrons must be seated when served.
Also, there will not be any singing, dancing, or live music.
The health unit says that failure to comply could result in a $5,000 fine.
“Cases are increasing at a concerning rate and it is clear we must take further action to protect our community,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, medical officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “We are issuing this class order and asking everyone to adhere to these social gathering limitations.”
“We have come so far, and as we provide increasing immunity to our community through immunization, we must all be vigilant and keep our community safe.”