Prince Edward Island is increasing COVID-19 restrictions, as health officials are reporting a record 35 new cases of the disease.
The Island’s chief public health officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, said today in a news release the new rules limiting indoor private gatherings are needed to reduce the spread of the Omicron variant of the novel coronavirus.
She says wedding receptions, funeral receptions and wakes will not be permitted starting Friday at 8 a.m.
As well, faith services, theatres, concerts and ceremonies for weddings and funerals will only be able to host a maximum of 50 people.
Venues may have up to 50 per cent capacity, with a maximum of 50 participants plus staff and officiants, while multiple cohorts of 50 are not permitted.
The Island is reporting 165 active infections, and officials say there have been 588 cases since the pandemic began.
P.E.I.’s Education Department is also announcing that public schools will switch to remote learning on Jan. 5 until at least Jan. 10.
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