There are more than 7,400 confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19 here in Canada.
That’s the latest update from Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public health officer, who adds that at any point in time there are many other potential cases under investigation.
“They are awaiting lab results (or maybe) they haven’t yet been tested,” says Tam, “… so even if you’re not hearing of cases in your community, it does not mean there are no cases and that there are no exposures waiting to happen.”
She says that as of Monday morning, there have been over 220,000 Canadians tested, with about three per cent testing positive for COVID-19.
“(Of those who have tested positive), approximately seven per cent require hospitalization, three per cent are critically ill and one per cent of all cases have been fatal.”
Despite the low number of cases when compared to other countries like the U.S., Tam explains that self-isolating is still key to keeping everyone safe.
“Head directly home, do not stop for groceries or other supplies. Pick up the phone (or) get online and order what you need, but do not go out into public spaces. Once home, you’re required to stay there and quarantine yourself for 14 days.”
Tam adds that those numbers will fluctuate as the provinces report new information.
