The province isn’t ruling out a larger lockdown as COVID infections increase and the positivity rate reaches 5.4 percent.

“Well the numbers are very concerning because we see that many of our hospitals are encountering some surges and some capacity concerns,” remarked Health Minister Christine Elliott.

Minister Elliott and Premier Doug Ford say further lock downs this month are not out of the question.

“It is concerning when we get into those percentages,” said Premier Ford. “I know I’ve said it throughout this whole pandemic but really everything is on the table and our number one priority is to protect the health and safety of the people of Ontario but we’ll listen to the advice of Dr. Williams and the health table,” added Ford.

And if you plan to Christmas shop outside your locked down region, Minister Elliott is urging you to stay home. “We are really encouraging people not to travel from a locked down zone to an area with a lesser level, we want people to stay in place, stay in your own homes.”

Lime Ridge Mall in Hamilton says it’s extending hours in anticipation of visitors coming from lockdown zones to finish up their Christmas shopping. In a note to retailers, the shopping centre said the change would be in effect between Dec. 14 and the new year.