A big change to Barry’s Bay’s long-term care home starts Friday.
The Valley Manor’s COVID vaccination policy will be revoked. That means that not being vaccinated will no longer be an obstacle for staff, volunteers, students, support workers and visitors entering the building.
That said, Manor officials still strongly recommend people be vaccinated and the Manor will still offer clinics.
CEO Trisha DesLaurier notes that the pandemic, “while not yet over, is changing” and the risk of severe outcomes has been reduced due to vaccinations, natural immunity and new therapies. The change in policy is as a result of new Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care recommendations.
Wearing a mask, however, will still be required for all staff and visitors indoors. Making outdoors remains recommended. And the limit of four visitors to a room will be removed.