Masks mandate ending in most settings on March 21

Ontario is ending its mask mandate in most indoor public settings and schools on March 21, 2022,  which was announced Wednesday (March 9, 2022) by Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore

"Removing the mask mandate does not mean the risk is gone, COVID-19 transmission is still occurring across the province and masks can help protect you and others from becoming infected from COVID-19," said Dr. Moore. 

Mandatory masking will still remain in hospitals, congregate care settings, the long-term care system, and users of public transit. Those remaining settings will be able to finally remove masks on April 27, 2022. 

The mask mandate was the last major COVID-19 restriction still in place in the province following Ontario lifting remaining capacity limits, and the proof of vaccination in most settings on March 1, 2022.

Moore still recommends those who are most vulnerable continue to wear masks. 

The province has also changed its case and contact management and isolation procedures.

Now, household members do not have to self-isolate but instead self-monitor for 10 days if exposed to COVID-19, test positive, and have symptoms within their house if they are over the age of 18 and have gotten their booster dose or under the age of 18 and fully vaccinated.

Those exposed can still attend school and work but are not recommended to attend high-risk settings. 

During the 10 day, self-monitor period masks are still recommended.

Those non-household members who have been in close contact with COVID-19 are not required to self-isolate regardless of vaccine status but self-monitor for 10 days. Mask-wearing is still recommended, and avoidance of high-risk settings is advised. 

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 self-isolation is required and a PCR or rapid antigen test is needed. 

On March 21, 2022, schools and child care providers will no longer be required to perform on-site verification of screening for all children, students, and staff. Children, students, and staff are still recommended to self-screen. Cohorting between students will also be eliminated.