Ottawa doctor suggests current COVID-19 isolation guidelines unsustainable

An Ottawa epidemiologist is pushing for a change of policy for isolation and testing requirements as public health struggles to keep up with demand for COVID-19 testing.

The surging Omicron variant is also pushing businesses to the brink over concerns of spread and access to testing.

"Out of serious concerns for not only our customers, but our staff, our family, we've made this decision to close that front door," said Nick Milito, owner of Bella's Boys Italian Kitchen.

The restaurant has decided to close its doors to indoor dining, offering only curbside pick up for now.

Milito says rising COVID-19 cases are causing concern about community spread, and lack of access to testing for staff and family.