Today we're learning of the first presumptive case of the novel coronavirus in Manitoba.
The Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen made the announcement this morning at a press conference.
Chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin wants to remind Manitobans that most people who contract the virus will only experience mild symptoms and will recover.
Those at high risk include people over age 65 and those with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems.
For those of us living in rural municipalities, Dr. Roussin says the guidelines for minimizing risk are no different than what's been advised in the big cities.
"I think it's going to be pretty much the same. Social distancing strategies are not directives, they are for everyone to be aware of roles they can play to protect themselves and the people around them. No matter where you are in the province, there is a role for you to reply in our response."
You can help protect yourself and your community by following public health advice; minimizing handshakes, disinfecting frequently used services, and by avoid events with large gatherings of people if possible.
The patient in question is a woman from Winnipeg in her 40’s who works with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.
She recently returned from traveling in the Philipines and currently is in self-isolation.
Official testing should be completed within 24 hours.
As of March 11, 403 tests have been completed for COVID-19 in Manitoba.
This news follows yesterday’s federal announcement of $1 billion dollars to support provinces in getting prepared to deal with COVID-19.
The NBA has postponed their season for the foreseeable future after a player on the Utah Jazz tested positive for the virus, while the NHL decided today to postpone their season.
The 49th annual JUNO Awards in Saskatoon have also been canceled.
