Ontario is urging long-term care homes to restrict access to all non-essential visitors.

A memo from Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams defines essential visitors as relatives of someone who is dying or gravely ill, or the parent or guardian of a sick child or youth.

Visitors who meet the tight new definitions will still be subjected to screening before being allowed inside a long-term care facility.

Williams’ memo says the measure is meant to protect residents who may be more vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.