11 | durahregion.com This Week Thursday, April 21, 2022 50 Paul Burns Way, Whitby | 905-665-9227 @espritlifestyle | www.espritlifestyle.com KEEP ACTIVE AND ENGAGED AT ESPRIT Independent Living and Assisted Living Add to your social calendar! Visit our website to book a tour. The chair of Durham Region wants you to mask up. John Henry is encouraging residents to wear masks when they're in shared indoor spaces. "While there have been many signs of optimism and progress, the latest data suggests that we are in yet another wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, as cases begin to rise once more," Henry said in a statement. "Although it is not mandated by the Provincial government, and while I respect your right to choose, I, along with the Durham Region Health Department, strongly encourage you to wear masks in shared indoor spaces. Regardless of mask requirements in the setting you are in, wearing a mask is an additional public health measure that may prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the community -- protecting you, your loved ones, and our most vulnerable residents," he added. The province removed mandatory masking in indoor spaces on Monday, March 14. However, since then, COVID cases have been rising, as have hospitalizations. On Tuesday, April14, Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's chief public health officer, advised people to continue wearing a mask, regardless of guidelines. "With the long weekend upon us, it is important that we all exercise caution, and use our best judgment when gathering with friends and family," Henry said. "For more information on masks, visit durham.ca/Masks. "Remember, we are all responsible for protecting our community, and the most vulnerable residents within it." WEAR A MASK, DURHAM REGION CHAIR URGES NEWS Durham Regional Chairman John Henry is encouraging residents to wear a mask when they are in shared indoor spaces. Metroland file photo