Host fined $880 after birthday party in Vaughan linked to 11 COVID-19 cases

A resident of York Region has been hit with an $880 fine after the 22-person birthday party they hosted at a private residence in Vaughan has been linked to 11 COVID-19 cases.

The party was allegedly held on December 6 while York Region was under red zone restrictions, and gatherings were meant to be limited to 5 people.

There are 11 confirmed cases associated with the party, including nine cases from York Region and two from the City of Toronto, all of whom are between the ages of three and 54.

“Of the 22 attendees, 7 were identified as high-risk contacts, and 4 are considered low-risk contacts with the remaining 11 attendees confirmed cases,” said York Region Public Health in a notice.

Attendees who have been deemed high risk have been advised by Public Health to self-isolate and self-monitor for any signs and symptoms of the virus until December 21.

York Region Public Health has issued a Public Notice for a birthday party at a private residence on December 6, 2020. 22 people attended and 11 cases have been linked to the event. High risk attendees have been advised to isolate and monitor for symptoms. https://t.co/PxsM1jdwvE pic.twitter.com/LzxbrxB7KZ

— York Region (@YorkRegionGovt) December 18, 2020

“By law, indoor gatherings can only include members of your immediate household, regardless of the reason for gathering. Individuals who live alone, including seniors, may consider having exclusive, close contact with one other household,” reminded Public Health in the notice.

The fine for breaking the coronavirus protocol is $750 with an additional $130 surcharge.