March 13, 2020

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Public health officials advise a fourth person has tested positive for COVID-19 in Manitoba.

Case four, a man in his 40s, lives in Winnipeg. At this time, it appears the individual was exposed to the virus through recent travel to South Korea, the Philippines and Japan. Public health investigations are ongoing.

In total, there has been one confirmed COVID-19 case in Manitoba and three presumptive positive cases.

In keeping with social distancing strategies outlined to Manitobans and in consultation with key stakeholders, public health officials have advised suspending classes in Manitoba K-12 schools effective March 23 to April 10. This is being done to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Manitoba.

Public health officials are also advising schools and educational institutions to:
•    ensure ill staff and students stay home from school, and support those who are self-isolating at home to ensure they do not fall behind in their studies;
•    reduce activities in large groups or crowds;
•    increase desk distance between students; and
•    consider implementing virtual or online classrooms, to reduce the number of people in classrooms and increase distance between staff and students.

Public health officials continue to recommend social distancing measures for all Manitobans, including:
•    cancelling or postponing any large-scale events with more than 250 attendees;
•    minimizing prolonged (more than 10 minutes), close (less than two metres) contact between individuals in public;
•    avoiding greetings that involve touching such as handshakes;
•    disinfecting frequently used surfaces;
•    following public health advice related to self-monitoring and self-isolation if you have travelled or have been exposed to someone ill with the virus; and
•    avoiding all non-essential travel, as well as crowded places and events.

Employers should review their business continuity plans and take steps to ensure employees can stay home when ill, without facing barriers such as the requirement for sick notes, and work from home if possible. Employers should also discontinue non-essential, work-related travel outside of Manitoba and encourage virtual meetings to reduce prolonged, close contact between individuals.

Being prepared also means using official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information. The Manitoba government is also urging media to exercise caution in reporting information related to the evolving COVID-19 situation and to avoid hearsay or speculation, as this can spread misinformation.

For more information, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/coronavirus/index.html.

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