The consequences of COVID-19 have been felt again in Manitoba.
Officials announced the province's third death related to the virus April 7. Twelve people are battling symptoms in hospital, with six in intensive care. Over 200 cases have been detected in Manitoba, including 13 new positive cases reported by the province.
One of those cases is listed in the Northern Health Region.
The person who died was a man in his 60s from Winnipeg
“We know the virus is in all health regions,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial health officer, during an April 7 briefing.
“We know that we've detected the virus at low levels in the community... You should assume the virus is in your community.”
The province’s chief nursing officer Lanette Siragusa said COVID-19 specific units are now being used for patients that require a hospital, but not intensive care.
She added officials were investigating a "respiratory outbreak" at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.
Roussin urged all Manitobans to stay home, especially if they are sick.
“When we say sick we don't necessarily mean feeling horrible,” he said.
“We know people with this virus have presented with very mild symptoms - sore throat, stuffy nose, cough, even if you have very mild symptoms - you need to stay home.”
Anyone with symptoms is encouraged to call Health Links - Info Santé at (204) 788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.
Roussin said following health orders would be key to prevent worse outcomes.
“We are all collectively taking actions right now to flatten the curve, to interrupt the transmission of this virus, to minimize the sad days like we have today.”
