Statement from Mayor Brian Bowman in Response to the First Presumptive Positive Case of COVID-19 in Winnipeg

Released: March 12, 2020 at 11:33 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – Statement from Mayor Bowman in response to the first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in Winnipeg:

“Today, Manitoba Health has confirmed the first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in Winnipeg. Manitoba Health is now recommending that social distancing strategies be implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19. Public health officials are also reminding all Manitobans to frequently wash their hands, cough and sneeze into their sleeves and to stay home when sick.

While reducing the risk of infection is a focus, it is important to note that the Public Health Agency of Canada says the risk of Canadians contracting the virus remains low.

Community health and well-being is our top priority. While the news of Winnipeg’s first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 may be unsettling, citizens should rest assured that all necessary steps are being taken to protect the health and safety of our citizens. The Office of Emergency Management is the lead for the City of Winnipeg and is collaborating with its counterparts from the Province of Manitoba and actively monitoring the situation. ”

Manitoba Health advises that symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild (fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat) to severe (shortness of breath and breathing difficulties). Elderly people and those living with chronic health conditions appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill.

Manitoba Health advises the following are precautions you can take:

  • Practice good handwashing hygiene and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and dry them thoroughly – if you are unable to wash your hands, use an alcohol-based hand cleanser
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve – throw used tissues in the garbage and immediately wash your hands, or use an alcohol-based hand cleanser
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Avoid close contact (within 2 meters) with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing
  • Avoid sharing cups, glasses, dishes or cutlery, and ensure cups/glasses/dishes/cutlery are thoroughly cleaned using soap and warm water after each use, or placed in the dishwasher for cleaning
  • Regularly clean workstations and objects with disinfectants that are touched frequently, such as doorknobs, handles and railings

If you have questions related to COVID-19, please visit the Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living website at:

https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/coronavirus/

Or contact Health Links/Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free 1-888-315-9257

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