Thunder Bay’s Medical Officer of Health wants to see more data before the province-wide mask mandate is lifted.

With Ontario dropping more COVID-19 restrictions on March 1st, Dr. Janet DeMille stressed it can take up to two weeks to really see the impacts of a reopening step.

“Right after the March Break would put (the data) at the two week time period,” mentioned DeMille. “I have always been supportive of a cautious and safe reopening so (taking our time with the decision) will put us on track to have a good spring and summer. I don’t want to see any steps disrupt that.”

On Thursday, Premier Doug Ford hinted that a decision on wearing masks will be coming as soon as possible while Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore said later in the day that the province remains on track to lift the requirement by the end of March.

DeMille noted that she’s encouraged that whatever decision Dr. Moore and the COVID-19 Science Table make will be based on data and evidence, among other factors.

When it comes to vaccinations, DeMille noted that regardless of when Ontario re-opens, the goal should be to get everyone fully immunized against COVID-19, especially those who are at higher risk of health complications should they get exposed to the virus.

The next key date is Monday, March 14th when the province is set to lift all capacity limits in indoor public settings but keep the proof of vaccination rule.