Now that ferry service to and from Pelee Island has ended for the season, residents who are not fully vaccinated say they are virtually stranded.
While they can board a plane to get off the island, they can't return without proof of vaccination.
There had been rumours on the island for weeks passengers would need both of their shots, but Pelee Island Transport only issued an official statement last weekend, days before ferry service ended.
WindsorNewsToday.ca reached out to the company that operates transportation to Pelee Island two weeks ago and requested an interview. Instead, Owen Sound Transportation referred it to a federal government webpage stating rules for air travellers.
A notice on Twitter dated December 3 officially informed residents proof of vaccination would be required for all passengers over 12 years and four months of age departing Windsor. However, flights departing Pelee Island do not.
"Passengers may leave Pelee Island without showing proof of vaccination, but will not be able to return to Pelee by air on the Pelee Winter Air Service without showing proof of vaccination on departure from Windsor," read the statement.
Cassie Hamill is a permanent resident who believes vaccinated or not, those living on the island should have access to vital supplies.
"Groceries. Yes, there's a small co-op over here, but groceries here are 30 per cent or so higher, and us young families that are trying to keep the island going can't always afford to pick everything up at the co-op," she said.
As a business owner, she attempted to stock up on supplies before the ferry service ended but fears if she runs out, she'll be out of luck.
"It is our lifeline," she explained. "We don't have a bridge to the island. There's no way to get here from the mainland other than the ferry and the airplane."
Last winter, passengers who had not been vaccinated were still allowed on flights back to the island so long as they wore their face masks. She wonders why the rules are not consistent.
As for doctors' appointments, Hamill wonders if she'll be able to get back home if she flies out to seek medical treatment.
WindsorNewsToday.ca has reached out to Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp. He said he is making inquiries into the situation.
As of publication time, Transport Minister Omar Alghbra had not returned a request for comment.