12 plus require proof of full vaccination to enter Windsor-Essex recreational sports facilities

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has released its vaccination requirements for those entering organized sports andrecreational facilities.

On Monday, the health unit said that by Oct. 1, all those entering a Windsor-Essex sports and recreation facility12 and older must show proof of vaccination or a valid medical exemption.

The acting medical officer of health Dr. Shanker Nesathuraireleased the new policy Monday afternoon. He alsoinstructed compliance with all other requirements under the Reopening Ontario Act, as well as minimizing pre and post-game activities, stressing the importance of arrivingimmediately before or leaving directly a game to avoid gatherings.

During a media call on Monday morning, Nesathurai addressed the health unit's plansbefore releasing the instructions.

"What we're trying to do is... improve the safety of the community," he said

The latest policy conflicts withthe full vaccination deadline set by the city of Windsor.

Last week, the city extended the full vaccination deadline for all those entering a sports and recreational facilityto Nov.15.

On Tuesday, Sept. 21, Mayor Drew Dilkens said in a statementhe realized an earlier policy that required youth 12 and up to be fully vaccinateddid not give enoughnotice.

According to direction given Monday, those who do not comply with the new regulations, will be held accountable under the Reopening Ontario Act. Fines for individuals are $750 and fines for corporations are $1,000.