Masks could soon become mandatory in city parks as public health officials grasp for ways to wrestle the spread of COVID-19 under control before it overwhelms local hospitals. "We are at a major, major point here as a city," Moloughney said. The new rules would be similar to those enacted this past winter, when Ottawa Public Health limited the number of people allowed on sledding hills and required masks be worn near skating rinks, Moloughney said. Earlier on Wednesday, city staff announced plans to close some city parks two hours early at 9 p.m. to prevent gatherings. (Ottawa Public Health)Hospitalizations worryingMoloughney said he's especially concerned by the rate of hospitalizations during this third wave of COVID-19.

Source: CBC News April 14, 2021 19:42 UTC