COVID 'wildfire' could result if holiday groups too large, says Wang

The region's medical officer of health says she knows people are eager to celebrate the holidays, but in order to curb the quickly accelerating rates of COVID-19 in the community, people should stay home.

Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang says people should only celebrate with immediate household members or if a person isalone, they can join one other household.

"Do not attend, or do not organize, large family dinners, big holiday dinners any social gatherings outside of your immediate household," Wang said Friday during a media briefing.

"I understand that this is challenging. Many of us were hoping not to have to spend the holidays this way and are feeling frustrated and tired of having to stay apart from others, but if given the opportunity, COVID-19 will spread like wildfire."

Her remarks echo those of Premier Doug Ford and Dr. Nicola Mercer, the medical officer of health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.

Mercer says people need to get creative and "think about a different way of celebrating Christmas."

Wang says the virus spreads easily indoors and in close contact interactions and that's a trend public health officials see in current cases.

Transmission is happening in social environments and workplace and business settings where people are in close contact with others, they'renot distancing or wearing masks, she said.

"While our traditions may look a little different this year, we can still celebrate. By celebrating apart, you can help protect yourself and loved ones," Wang said.