News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

May 20, 2021

Additional Public Health Orders Introduced to Lower Case Counts, Reduce Stress on Health-Care System

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Manitobans No Longer Permitted to Gather Outdoors with Anyone Outside Household, One Person per Household Allowed in Stores: Roussin

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Additional public health orders will come into effect this Saturday to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the strain on the health-care system, Health and Seniors Care Minister Heather Stefanson and Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer, announced today.

“These additional measures are necessary right now, as Manitoba has seen some of its highest case counts ever in recent days,” said Stefanson. “I’m asking all Manitobans to follow the orders, as these additional measures are necessary to slow the spread of this virus, and protect our communities and our health-care system.”

The following additional public health order restrictions will be in effect on Saturday, May 22 at
12:01 a.m.:
• outdoor gatherings with anyone from outside a household are no longer allowed and this applies to all recreation spaces including playgrounds, golf courses, parks and sports fields; and
• only one person per household will be allowed to enter a business, with some exceptions, such as a single parent with children, or someone who requires a caregiver.

“We are still seeing case numbers in our province that are far too high,” said Roussin. “I know it is tough for us all when we have to tighten restrictions, but everyone needs to understand that we are at a critical point with this virus. We are seeing more and more people in ICU, especially younger people. We need to lower these case numbers. This long weekend is not the time to gather with friends.”

Roussin noted that with second-dose appointment bookings beginning this week, the province’s vaccine rollout is headed in the right direction. However, Manitobans must to continue to do everything they can to reduce transmission of the virus.

“We all need to follow these orders, stay home as much as possible, reduce our number of contacts and wear masks when we are around others from outside your household,” said Roussin. “Above all, book your appointment for a vaccine right away and your second dose as soon as you are eligible.”

The new changes to public health orders will be in place until 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, May 26.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.

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