New Ontario COVID-19 restrictions take effect today amid 'explosive' growth in hospitalizations

Ontario residents and business across the province will face a new set of restrictions Wednesday meant to curb the rampant spread of COVID-19.

The measures were announced by Premier Doug Ford on Monday and went into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Jan. 5.

The restrictions, a return to Step Two of the province’s reopening plan, include the closure of indoor dining, food courts, gyms and theatres, as well as lower capacity limits in most other settings.

Most personal care services will be allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity, though some settings such as saunas and steam rooms will have to be closed.

Social gatherings are limited to five people indoors and 10 people outdoors.