Any Manitoban with symptoms of the novel coronavirus can now be tested, says Premier Brian Pallister.
Pallister made the announcement Tuesday morning.
Even those with mild symptoms, including a cough, runny nose, sore throat and/or fever, can be tested to better track the spread of the virus.
Pallister noted Manitoba’s curve has remained relatively flat in recent weeks.
“I’m not running any victory lap here… the risk of COVID-19 remains, it is significant and it should not be minimized,” he said.
“Dynacare has been performing COVID-19 tests since early April out of its Ontario-based laboratory to supplement the capacity of CPL (Cadham Provincial Laboratory) and, as of April 27, has completed 557 tests,” said the province in a release.
“The Manitoba government and Dynacare have entered into a partnership that will see up to 2,000 tests a day before the end of summer.”
Reopening plan
The increased testing will play a big part in boosting Manitobans’ confidence as things begin to reopen, said Pallister.
He added that the province’s reopening plan will be revealed Wednesday.
“We want to be the first to have our economy up and functioning,” he said, not being first to have a plan.
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.
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.
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