Coronavirus: Winnipeg mayor says social distancing scofflaws put community at risk

Winnipeg’s mayor is taking aim at local residents who seem to think they’re immune to the COVID-19 pandemic and are continuing to flout social distancing guidelines.

Brian Bowman said people out playing soccer — referring to a tweet that appears to show a large group playing a match at Gordon Bell High School on Monday — and gathering despite warnings are putting public safety at risk.

“I would take the recommendations from Manitoba Health and the public health orders deadly serious,” the mayor told 680 CJOB.

“They are having deadly consequences around the globe, and here in Winnipeg and in Manitoba.”

Bowman said while the vast majority Winnipeggers are complying with the physical distancing requirement, the minority who are not, need to realize they aren’t invincible.

“They’re putting their own health at risk, and they’re also putting the health of our community at risk.”

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Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister told reporters Monday that consequences for those who disregard social distancing requirements are coming.

“Unfortunately, for some people, a financial penalty or deterrent of some kind is about the only way it will click,” Pallister said.

“It is on the radar to see if there are necessary deterrents that need be pursued because of this. Sadly, that’s necessary given the reality that some are disrespecting the rest of us.”

Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.

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Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.