Ontario’s top doctor is advising those who have yet to receive a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to avoid celebrating with elderly loved ones in person this holiday break due to the spread of the ‘aggressive’ Omicron variant, putting a damper on the plans of many families hoping to get together.
Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health, said Friday to “avoid social contact with anyone older” even though one has received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
“If you are going to interact, I’d do it outdoors with masking and distancing in place. I hope the weather stays reasonable across Ontario to enable that because I think all of us have to learn for the last 20 months to best protect those that are older in our communities,” Moore said when asked if it’s worth the risk to see a grandparent with three doses over the holidays.
“I’m sorry to recommend that.”
Moore did say people should get their third dose or booster shot if they are planning to celebrate indoors with anyone vulnerable to infection.
“Once we get better understanding of the severity of this virus, we’ll communicate that to all Ontarians,” he said. “At present, it’s affecting a younger population. We’re very concerned about how it could infect others, so those that are older.”
Many families have been looking forward to gathering this season after not being able to last year when vaccinations were just starting. In 2020, all Ontarians were told to only celebrate with members of their own household and connect with extended family members and friends virtually.