Manitoba public health officials announced on Thursday March 12, 2020 the first presumptive case of COVID-19 has arrived in the province.
According to official a woman in her 40s living in the Winnipeg area has tested positive for COVID-19.
The woman had recently travelled to the Philippines where she was exposed to the virus.
On Wednesday March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization declared the virus a global pandemic.
Health officials in Manitoba are recommending that everyone exercise social distancing strategies to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
People should avoid greetings that involve touching like hugs and handshakes, minimize prolonged contact with individuals in public, disinfect frequently used surfaces.
Health officials also advise to consider avoiding travel, crowded places and events if you are at higher risk.
People at a greater risk of severe outcomes with the virus are those over 65-years-old, people with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems.
Manitobans are reminded to wash their hands frequently, cough and sneeze into their sleeves and stay home when sick.
Employers are being encouraged to consider stopping all non-essential work related travel outside of Manitoba and suggesting the use of virtual meetings to reduce prolonged, close contact between individuals.
Schools and educational facilities are being advised to make sure student and staff who are ill stay home. Officials also advise that large group activities should be reduced and that the distance between student desks be increased. Where possible schools are also being asked to consider virtual or online classrooms to reduce the number of people in classrooms and increase the distance between staff and students.
Beginning today people in Winnipeg who are directed by Health Links to be tested for COVID-19 will be directed to a screening location. The first two community screening locations will open today, at Access Winnipeg West (at 280 Booth Dr.) and Access Fort Garry (135 Plaza Dr.).
Health-Links can be reached at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free)
© News4.ca 2020
