Manitoba is spending $35.2 million to prepare for the spread of Covid-19 in the province.
Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen announced on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, that the procurement of protective equipment is part of the planning for what would be needed in the event of an outbreak of the virus in Manitoba.
“Our government, along with provinces and territories, is taking inventory of the personal protective equipment (PPE) currently in our jurisdiction, and planning for what would additionally be required in the event of an outbreak,” said Friesen. “Ensuring staff throughout the health system have access to the equipment and supplies required for safe patient care and their own personal protection is a priority.”
The supplies being purchased include gloves, gowns, procedure or surgical masks and face/eye protection and will be used in front-line health-care facilities and sites across the province. Those include hospitals, personal care homes, service delivery organizations and clinics.
“The government and public health officials are reminding Manitobans the risk of acquiring COVID-19 in Manitoba remains low, but is increasing given events occurring in Canada and around the world. We must continue to prepare for this virus in Manitoba,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief public health officer.
The purchase of the PPE is part of a federal bulk purchase plan being coordinated by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
According to the province most of the supplies being procured will not spoil and will have a long shelf life if required.
To date 97 Manitobans have been tested for Covid-19. There are no confirmed cases of the virus within the province. The risks to Manitobans continues to remain low.
There have been 79 confirmed cases of the virus in Canada (British Columbia – 32, Alberta – 7, Ontario – 36 and Quebec – 4). Across the globe there are 118,099 confirmed cases including 4,262 deaths related to the virus.
Health officials recommend that people should wash their hands regularly with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand cleanser. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and stay home when you are sick, regardless of recent travel.
It is also a good idea to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
© News4.ca 2020
