Hamilton hits daily record for new COVID-19 cases, might see lockdown

Hamilton hit a new high for daily confirmed COVID-19 cases on Monday, with 150 new cases reported and the likelihood of the city moving into lockdown growing stronger.

In fact, Hamilton’s Mayor Fred Eisenberger even said an impending lockdown is “likely” for the city; though, the official news won’t come until the Ontario government’s weekly COVID-19 update this Friday.

A lockdown would see even tighter restrictions placed on the city, including the closure of indoor and outdoor dining, gyms and fitness centres, salons and spas, and non-essential retail for anything other than curb-side pickup. Notably, however, schools are permitted to remain open under the province’s lockdown rules.

Hamilton records 150 new #COVID19 cases on Monday, mayor says lockdown is 'likely' | CBC News https://t.co/F3B5C5XcvV #HamOnt

— CBC Hamilton (@CBCHamilton) December 14, 2020

That aside, the city is already strongly urging locals to keep forthcoming holiday celebrations low-key this year, only celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve with those in your immediate household and not participating in large gatherings with others.

“There is no doubt this holiday season will look different than in years past, however staying apart now will make it so that when we are able to safely gather again, no one is missing,” said Mayor Eisenberger in a statement.

As of Monday’s report, Hamilton currently has 799 known active cases of COVID-19 in the city, with an overall total of 4,312 cases since the pandemic first hit the city. 119 of those cases have resulted in deaths.

The city also has 23 current active COVID-19 outbreaks in places like businesses, schools, hospitals, and long-term care homes. A map of COVID-19 outbreaks in Hamilton can be viewed here.

Read more on the city website.

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