Alberta is loosening some of its COVID-19 health measures for outdoor gatherings, personal services and funeral attendances.
Starting January 18, up to 10 people will be allowed at outdoor social gatherings as long as they are wearing masks and keeping a two-metre distance. Indoor gatherings are still prohibited.
Personal and wellness services such as hair salons, barbershops, esthetic services and piercing and tattoo businesses will be allowed to open by appointment only.
Funeral ceremonies will be increased to a maximum of 20 people but receptions are still prohibited.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw says there has been a decline in transmission but the healthcare system is still at risk.
“By easing some measures like outdoor gathering limits, we hope to support Albertans’ mental health, while still following other restrictions that are helping us reduce case numbers.”
As of January 13, there are five active COVID-19 cases in the County of Vermilion River and four in the Municipal District of Wainwright.