The Pas mayor Herb Jaques spoke to Arctic Radio with a special announcement for the community.

To stop the spread of COVID 19 Effective Immediately all municipally owned recreation facilities in The Town of The Pas including the swimming pool, the skating rink, and the wellness centre will be closed for a period of two weeks.

People in The Pas and Area are encouraged to continue practicing appropriate COVID 19 measures.

The Pas mayor Herb Jaques spoke to Arctic Radio with a special announcement for the community.

To stop the spread of COVID 19 Effective Immediately all municipally owned recreation facilities in The Town of The Pas including the swimming pool, the skating rink, and the wellness centre will be closed for a period of two weeks.

People in The Pas and Area are encouraged to continue practicing appropriate COVID 19 measures.

#RestartMB Pandemic Response System Moves to Critical (red) in Winnipeg Metro Region, Restricted (orange) in Rest of Province: Roussin

Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced provincewide changes to the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System today in order to halt the growing community transmission of COVID-19 in Manitoba.

“We have pleaded with Manitobans to follow the fundamentals and to significantly reduce their contacts, and the numbers continue in the wrong direction,” said Roussin. “It is our hope that these new restrictions will help to halt the spread of this virus in order to ensure our health-care system is there for those who need it. I hope that this is a clear signal to Manitobans, and in particular the Winnipeg Metro Region, that we need to stay home, keep our distance and make a necessary collective sacrifice to protect all Manitobans.”

The announcement included:
• Critical level (red) in the Winnipeg Metro Region – Effective Monday, Nov. 2, the Winnipeg Metro Region will move to the Critical level (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System. This includes the following changes:
- Bars and restaurants will be closed except for take-out and delivery.
- Most retail will be reduced to 25 per cent capacity.
- Sports and recreation programming will be suspended.
- Gyms and fitness centres will have reduced capacity to 25 per cent and masks will be mandatory, even when exercising.
- Movie theatres and concert halls will close.
- Personal services have no change and stay at 50 per cent capacity.
- Non-urgent and elective surgeries and diagnostics will be suspended. Scheduled surgeries in a number of essential and time-sensitive areas will continue to be performed including cancer, cardiac and trauma. Patients will be contacted directly if their scheduled surgeries are affected.
- Visitation at all Manitoba hospitals has been suspended, with exceptions made on a case-by-case basis for patients receiving end-of-life care, in labour and delivery, as well as in pediatrics.
- Faith-based gatherings are reduced to 15 per cent or 100 people, whichever is lower.

• Restricted level (orange) in rest of Manitoba: The Southern Health–Santé Sud, Prairie Mountain Health and Interlake–Eastern health regions will move to the Restricted level (orange) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System effective Monday, Nov. 2, joining the Northern health region at orange. Changes for these regions include:
- Public and private group gathering sizes limited to five, in addition to household.
- Capacity limited to 50 per cent at restaurants and bars, with group sizes limited to five.
- Reduced retail capacity to 50 per cent, encouraging limiting those who go shopping from each household.
- Blended learning for grades 9 to 12, voluntary blended learning temporarily available for kindergarten to Grade 8, encouraging as much physical distancing as possible.
- Personal services have no change and stay at 50 per cent capacity.
- Reduced spectators at sports and recreation facilities to 25 per cent.
- Gyms and fitness centers require contact information for all attendees and mask use at all times, except when exercising.
- Faith-based gatherings are reduced to 20 per cent or 250 people, whichever is lower.

“The incubation period for this virus is up to 14 days – if we limit our contacts and stay home, we could see drastic reductions in transmission within weeks,” said Dr. Roussin. “We have done this before and I am confident we can do it again. But we need to be serious about this if we want to bend the curve.”

In addition to these changes, the province is encouraging businesses in the Winnipeg Metro Region, including the public service, to have staff work from home wherever possible, and for residents to stay home when sick and take whatever action possible to reduce their contacts and otherwise gathering in public.

“While our system continues to have capacity to care for the health needs of Manitobans, these case numbers can be expected to result in a surge in demand on our health system over the coming weeks,” said Lanette Siragusa, provincial lead, health system integration, quality, and chief nursing officer, Shared Health. “The time to increase capacity is now. We are taking every necessary step to safely ramp down elective and non-urgent services so that we can redeploy staff and other resources to areas of increased demand. We are adding beds to existing areas, preparing to convert existing beds from their current use and identifying staff who can be oriented to new areas.”

“We have a plan. We have equipment and space and supplies. And we are working through the details of the staffing and models of care to support the safe delivery of health services now and for the weeks to come,” Siragusa added.

Manitobans are still strongly encouraged to focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
• People must stay home if sick.
• Wash/sanitize your hands, cover your cough and physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
• If you cannot physically distance, you should wear a mask to help reduce your risk.
• Reduce the number of close contacts outside your household, and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces.
• Get a flu shot.

Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.
 
For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.
 
For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

- 30 -

BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Public health officials advise three additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 80s, a female in her 90s and a female in her 80s, all from the Winnipeg region and linked to the outbreak at Parkview Place.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 8.6 per cent and 480 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 5,374. Of the 480 news cases, two were identified Sunday, four were identified Monday, 44 were identified Tuesday, 193 were identified Wednesday and 237 were identified Thursday.

Today’s data shows:

• 42cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 25 cases in the Northern health region;
• 10 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 94 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
• 309 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:

• 2,737 active cases and 2,572 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 104 people in hospital and 19 people in intensive care; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 65.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,865 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 253,357. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise one additional death due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region and is not linked to any current outbreaks. 

The Northern Health Region held their annual general meeting for the 2019-20 year on Tuesday afternoon.

COVID-19 was a highlight of the meeting, with CEO Helga Bryant saying it was -quote- “all consuming” for the region since February.

With recent news briefings from the province stating COVID-positive patients or people experiencing symptoms are disregarding self-isolation guidelines and not limiting social contacts, Bryant is reminding people that the best way to curb the spread of the virus is to stay home.

In her annual report, Bryant highlighted that the region improved harm reduction by increasing capacity on RAM clinics across the north.

However, sexually transmitted and blood-borne diseases continue to significantly impact the region, and Bryant says while the focus is on COVID, the health authority needs to continue to be a leader in combating the syphilis outbreak in the north, which has reached a near-epidemic state in the province.

She goes on to say that the NRHA is a leader in helping to address syphilis in the region.

For the full annual report, visit northernhealthregion.com

Remembrance Day will be recognized differently this year with the ongoing pandemic.

The Pas Legion will not be having a public ceremony this year and the post ceremony gathering has also been canceled, they will be having an invitation only service broadcast on Facebook.

People are encouraged to stay home and watch Remembrance Day Ceremonies online or on TV

Poppies are expected to be available tomorrow and if you would like to purchase a wreath call 204-623-3751

Public health officials advise three additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 80s from Winnipeg linked to the Victoria Hospital outbreak, a female in her 80s from the Interlake–Eastern health region linked to the Misericordia Place outbreak and male in his 40s also from the Interlake–Eastern health region.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 7.3 per cent and 170 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. However, one case was removed due to a data error. This means the net new number of cases is 169, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 4,701.

Today’s data shows:
• 26 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• six cases in the Northern health region;
• three cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 18 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 117 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 2,334 active cases and 2,306 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 89 people in hospital and 19 people in intensive care; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 61.

Laboratory testing numbers show 3,437 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 248,077. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise the outbreak at St. Norbert personal care home has been declared over.

All other possible exposure locations are listed online by region at the province’s #RestartMB Pandemic Response System webpage. For up-to-date information on possible public exposures to COVID-19 in regions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/flights.html#event and click on your region.

In partnership with the chief and council from Cross Lake First Nation, provincial public health officials are advising that multiple individuals in the community have tested positive for COVID-19. These cases are related to previously announced public exposures and have led to a high number of close contacts.
 
Provincial public health officials are working with the community and other partners to address the situation. The community has been moved to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System. The chief and council have directed that public gatherings are not permitted and community residents are required to stay at home. People should only leave their residence to seek testing or medical care, or to send one person from a household for essential supplies. People who work in essential services are able to leave their residence for work. Non-medical masks must be worn outside the home.

The chief provincial public health officer urges Manitobans to not socialize with people from outside their household, to cut down the number of close contacts, and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces. In addition, they should focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Wash/sanitize your hands and cover your cough.
• Physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
• If you cannot physically distance, wear a mask to help reduce the risk to others or as required by public health orders.

Public health guidance for Halloween trick or treating has been developed. If people do choose to participate in trick or treating this year, information is available on how to do it safely at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/halloween.html.

Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.

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

For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

Communities Economic Development Fund will be hosting an online forum next week to talk about what Look North has accomplished this past year, and to get feedback on what it should focus on moving forward.

There will also be a number of speakers talking about various different aspects of economic development and opportunities in Northern Manitoba in industries like fishing, tourism, forestry, and digital media.

The online forum will be taking place November 2^nd to the 6^th, with session being held 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, and 10 a.m. to noon from Wednesday to Friday.

The forum is free to attend, and to register you can email Leann Brown at lbrown@cedf.mb.ca or by connecting with your local Look North Advisor toll free at 1-800-561-4315.

With the increase in COVID 19 cases and in an effort to protect the public, The Pas Regional Library will only be offering curb side pickup and they will not be allowing in person browsing or other services until further notice.

People that wish to borrow materials are asked to call 204-623-2023  and staff will have the requested materials at the front door at the library at the requested time.

Public health officials advise three additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported from the Winnipeg region, a female in her 60s linked to the Parkview Place outbreak, a male in his 80s linked to an outbreak at St. Boniface Hospital and a female in her 80s linked to an outbreak at St. Boniface Hospital.

The Opaskwayak Health Authority is encouraging all OCN members to get there flu shots and clinics will be held today and tomorrow at the veterans hall from 3PM Until 8PM

Only a Limited number of people will be allowed in the building, and people are asked to wear masks and physically distance.

You will also need your Manitoba Health Card, and you are asked to stay home if you feel unwell.

On June 8^th of this year the Town of The Pas Authorized the temporary closure of two walkways on the west side of Cudmore Crescent, and the town received a letter from residents thanking the town for closing the walkways and mentioned how the closure has worked.

The Letter stated that since the walking paths were closed there has been less foot traffic and no unruly or intoxicated people have been observed either.

Public health officials advise one death due to COVID-19 has been reported from the Winnipeg region, a female in her 80s related to the outbreak at Parkview Place.

New COVID 19 related restrictions in Northern Manitoba take effect today and Celina Mell the superintendent of the Kelsey School Division spoke to Arctic Radio to tell us what these restrictions will mean for staff and students.

She says there won’t be any drastic changes and the schools have made preparations ahead of time.

The schools will continue to require physical distancing, mask wearing, and other appropriate covid 19 measures.

Remote learning options will be provided to students that are immune compromised or have a medical certificate and extracurricular sports will continue to operate under provincial guildlines.

Field trips with the exception of nature walks will be cancelled, parents meetings will need to be done over the phone or on a zoom call, and schools will log attendance information and monitor the attendance daily.  Students will also be forbidden from using wind instruments until further notice.

Dave Hachey the president of the cleaning and disinfecting company Ogena Solutions spoke to Arctic Radio with some advice on how to use disinfectants during the pandemic.

When using a disinfectant it’s important to ensure that surfaces are cleaned before applying disinfectants otherwise they won’t work properly, this rule is especially important when using bleach. Bleach should never be mixed with soap either.

Another mistake people make is ignoring the contact time listed on the products labels, which is the amount of time that a surface has to be wet for a disinfectant to work properly.

The Pas Kinsmen provided member Ken Tritthart with a Life Membership Award.

According to the clubs Facebook Tritthart has been a member for 17 years and has organized numerous community projects including the Canada Day and OCN Blizzard Barbeques.

The club wants to thank Tritthart for his dedication.

Public health officials advise the 48th death due to COVID-19 has been reported, a male in his 80s from Winnipeg health region. The case is linked to the outbreak at Parkview Place and was previously announced. 

Getting a flu shot during the pandemic is now more important than ever and flu shot clinics will soon be held at the legion here in The Pas with no appointments required.

The clinics will be held on November 2^nd, 3rd, 7^th, 13^th, and 14^th.

A full schedule of clinics and locations can be found on northernhealthregion.com

Public health officials advise the 44th, 45th, 46th and 47th deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported:
• a male in his 80s and a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region and are linked to the outbreak at Parkview Place;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region; and
• a male in his 80s from the Interlake–Eastern health region. 

All the cases were previously announced.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 5.6 per cent and 147 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m., bringing the number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 3,773.

Today’s data shows:
• seven cases in Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 10 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 10 cases in the Northern health region;
• 33 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 87 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 1,806 active cases and 1,920 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 42 people in hospital and eight people in intensive care; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 47.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,220 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 233,222. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

New COVID-19 public health orders will be issued for the Northern health region and Churchill by the chief provincial public health officer. The orders will come into effect Monday, Oct. 26 and remain in effect for a minimum of two weeks.

The restrictions will be the same as those currently in place in the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region. This includes:
• reducing gathering sizes;
• closing of casinos, bingo halls and entertainment facilities with a license under the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act that requires the licensee to present live entertainment must close to members of the public, with the exception of providing food for take-out or delivery;
• limiting the occupancy of other licensed businesses, retail businesses and restaurants of 50 per cent of their usual capacity;
• limiting the occupancy of personal service businesses of 50 per cent of their usual occupancy or one person for each 10 square metres of the premises that is open to the public, whichever is less; and
• requiring a restaurant or licensed premises, theatre, museum, gallery, library, personal service business, concert hall, or fitness facility to keep contact information for members of the public attending their premises and maintain those records for 21 days to support contract tracing.

In addition, the following measures will be put in place for schools in the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region and the Northern health regions under the Restricted Level (orange), effective Oct. 26:
• Schools must ensure two metres of physical distancing to the greatest extent possible, and adjust classroom space as necessary; excess furniture must be removed from classrooms to create additional space; and other spaces within schools must be repurposed to accommodate more distancing (e.g., multipurpose rooms, empty rooms, shared spaces, common areas and libraries).
• Extracurricular activities are only permitted if all learning and distancing requirements have been met. If these activities continue, established guidelines must be followed and, in the case of sports, participants should maintain distance when not active.
• Teachers and staff who move across cohorts of students, including substitute teachers, are required to wear medical masks. Medical-grade disposable masks have been issued to all schools. N95 masks are not required.
• Indoor choir and the use of wind instruments are not permitted.  
• All field trips must be postponed or cancelled.
• Blended learning (in-class and online) for grades 9 to 12 where distancing cannot be achieved will continue as per status quo.
• Kindergarten to Grade 8 students may be offered a temporary remote learning option for the duration of the Restricted level (orange).
• All other public health measures will still in effect.

Public health officials also advise:
• an outbreak has been declared at Arborgate School at 70 Normandeau Bay in La Broquerie, and the school has been elevated to orange on the province’s #RestartMB Pandemic Response System;
• an outbreak has been declared at the Ochekwi Sipi Personal Care Home in the Fisher River Cree Nation due to a positive case in a health-care worker. The facility has been elevated to red on the province’s #RestartMB Pandemic Response System and additional protocols have been put into place; and
• the outbreak at Bethesda Place personal care home has been declared over. 

All other possible exposure locations are listed online by region at the province’s #RestartMB Pandemic Response System webpage. For up-to-date information on possible public exposures to COVID-19 in regions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/flights.html#event and click on your region.

The chief provincial public health officer strongly encourages Manitobans to reduce the number of close contacts outside their household and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces. In addition, they should focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Wash/sanitize your hands and cover your cough.
• Physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
• If you cannot physically distance, wear a mask to help reduce the risk to others or as required by public health orders.

Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.

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

For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

Our MP Niki Ashton has been calling on the Federal Government to support the air transport industry that has been hit hard during the pandemic.

Ashton says COVID 19 has had a massive impact on the airline industry with massive layoffs and customers being ripped off.

Minister of Transport Mark Garneau wants to assure all Canadians that they recognize that there have been great difficulties in the air sector and they are working on solutions to ensure that Canadians have safe reliable travel once we pull out of the pandemic.

Ashton feels Canada as not done anything to address issues with the airline industry the same way the other countries have, saying that other countries around the world facing the same challenges have shown leadership and put in place solutions to protect the public interest.

Public health officials advise the 43rd death due to COVID-19 has been reported, a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region. This case was previously announced and is connected to the outbreak at Parkview Place. 

On October 19^th the Kelsey School Division was made aware of a confirmed COVID 19 case at one of their schools.

The school division wants to assure parents and students that the school division is working closely with public health to determine if there is any risk to the school community and if any additional steps are required and public health will contact anyone directly if they have been exposed.

As part of their safety plan parents are reminded to keep their children home if they are unwell and the schools will continue to practice appropriate COVID 19 safety measures including mask wearing, and social distancing.

The statement from the School Board can be found on the 102.9 CJAR Facebook page.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 4.3 per cent and 110 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. However, a case was removed due to duplication. This brings the total net new cases today to 109 and number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 3,491. 

New restrictions on casinos took effect yesterday in the Winnipeg Region and the Aseneskak Casino wants to clarify that this will not affect their business and they will continue to operate.

They are asking people not to visit if they are unwell and to wear a mask and practice physical distancing if you plan to visit.

They would like to thank all patrons for doing their part to keep others safe.

Public health officials advise the 41st and 42nd deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a female in her 80s and a male in his 70s, both from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the Heritage Lodge outbreak. These cases were previously announced.

Public health officials advise the 39th and 40th deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 70s and a female in her 70s, both from the Winnipeg health region. These cases were previously announced.

Premier Brian Pallister has officially launched the provinces influenza immunization program.  He says it’s even more important to get a flu shot as we deal with the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. 

He explains the flu vaccine protects us from serious illness and the flu vaccine saves lives adding the flu vaccine is available to all Manitobans at no charge and he is pleased to say that the eligibility criteria for the high dose seasonal influenza vaccine has been expanded to include not only senior residents of long term care facilities but many other Manitobans over 65 years of age.

That includes all seniors living north of the 53^rd parallel.  Close to 150 thousand doses have already been shipped to providers with the full allotment to be sent out over the next several weeks.  You can find times and locations for influenza clinics by going to the Northern Health Region website.

The Pas Family Resource Centre is having an online pumpkin carving contest pumpkins will be provided and can be picked up on October 20^th and 21^st at 209 Fischer Avenue and you can call 204-620-4664 to secure one.

The deadline to submit photos of pumpkins is October 28^th and contest rules and more details can be found on The Pas Family Resource Centre Facebook page.

Manitobans who may be seeking help or support now have an easier way of being directed to the resources that they may need.

That’s thanks to the new 2-1-1 phone line service in the province, which launched last week.

Manitoba 2-1-1’s online service was established in 2017, and United Way Winnipeg’s President and CEO Connie Walker says that they were able to expand to the phone line service thanks to funding provided by the federal government.

Walker says people can now call 2-1-1 and will be in touch with a call taker who will help find the right kind of health or social service you may need, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information on the new 2-1-1 phone line service, you can call 2-1-1, or visit mb.211.ca

The Pas Pre School is Accepting registrations for the 2020-2021 school year. Its open for children aged 3 to 5 and if you have any question you can call Brenda at 204-623-7700.

You can sign up your child by following this link

https://form.jotform.com/92554222653254

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 5.2 per cent and 75 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. bringing the total number of cases in Manitoba to 3,173.

Today’s data shows:
•    seven cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
•    two cases in the Northern health region;
•    one case in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
•    two cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
•    63 cases in the Winnipeg health region.
 
The data also shows:
•    1,582 active cases and 1,553 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
•    there are 25 people in hospital and five people in intensive care; and
•    the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 38.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,174 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 220,052. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise that with the increase in cases, the number of possible exposures continues to rise. As of 9:30 a.m., there have been nine school exposures in the Winnipeg, Southern Health-Santé Sud and Prairie Mountain Health regions, as well as exposures related to one child care centre, two travel/transit and one night club since yesterday. Possible exposure locations will be shared on social media and are listed online by region at the province’s #RestartMB Pandemic Response System webpage https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html  with flight information listed at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/updates/flights.html

For up-to-date information on possible public exposures to COVID-19 within regions, visit:
•    Interlake-Eastern: www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/interlake_eastern/index.html#exposure
•    Northern: www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/northern/index.html#exposure
•    Prairie Mountain Health:
www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/prairie_mountain/index.html#exposure
•    Southern Health-Santé Sud: www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/southern/index.html#exposure
•    Winnipeg Regional Health Authority:  www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/winnipeg/index.html#exposure

The chief provincial public health officer strongly encourages Manitobans to reduce the number of close contacts outside their household and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces. In addition, they should focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
•    Stay home if you are sick.
•    Wash/sanitize your hands and cover your cough.
•    Physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
•    If you cannot physically distance, wear a mask to help reduce the risk to others or as required by public health orders.

Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19. For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

Manitoba Justice is looking for corrections officers and they will be holding information sessions next Wednesday at Mary Duncan School.

The sessions will cover career opportunities and the corrections officer training program with The Pas Correctional Centre.

The sessions will be held at 2 in the afternoon and 7 in the evening and if you are interested in signing up or if you want more information call, 204-627-8459 or 204-627-8344.

The Northland Ford Scares Hunger Food Drive is up and running and they will be accepting food donations at the dealership from now until October 31^st.

All donations will go to local school breakfast programs and The Pas Friendship Centre Foodbank.

Public health officials advise the 38th death due to COVID-19 has been reported, a male in his 40s from the Winkler district in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region. This was a previously announced case.

The Pas Mayor Herb Jaques spoke to Arctic Radio recently to talk about the community’s sewage lagoon, due to issues with the lagoon the province of Manitoba didn’t allow The Pas to build any new projects until the issues were resolved.

Mayor Jaques announced that the Town will receive funding from the Manitoba Government through the Restart Program that will cover around 60 percent of the cost to build a new lagoon.

The goal is to start construction on the new lagoon sometime next summer. The full interview with Herb Jaques can be found on The Pas Today.

Our MP Niki Ashton’s latest MP report stated that the pandemic has had a negative impact on small businesses in Canada.

Ashton is urging the Government to make the eligibility for the new assistance plan retroactive so that small businesses owners get the help they need should they have to close.

Ashton stated in her report that a majority of small businesses did not get any help from the original program and is urging the government to act to help small businesses during the pandemic.

Public health officials advise the 36th and 37th deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 80s and female in her 70s both from Winnipeg. These were previously announced cases.  

Manitoba Public Insurance announced yesterday that Manitobans that identify as non binary can now have an ‘X’ as a gender identifier on their drivers licenses.

Also, Manitobans can have their gender unspecified on their license and on other ID cards.

Manitoba now joins Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in becoming the only jurisdictions in the country that offers this kind of gender identification.

Public health officials advise the 35th death due to COVID-19 have been reported, a male in his 70s from the rural east district in Southern Health. This was a previously announced case.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 3.5 per cent and 124 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m., bringing the total number of cases in Manitoba to 2,779. Of the 124 news cases, 26 were identified Monday, 83 were identified Sunday and 15 were identified Saturday.

Today’s data shows:
•    16 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
•    one case in the Northern health region;
•    three cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
•    nine cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
•    95 cases in the Winnipeg health region.
 
The data also shows:
•    1,248 active cases and 1,496 individuals have recovered from COVID-19;
•    there are 28 people in hospital and five people in intensive care; and
•    the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 35.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,383 tests were completed Friday, 3,311 were completed Saturday, 2,049 were completed Sunday and 2,188 were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 213,669. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Three new additional testing sites, two in Winnipeg and one in Brandon, will open in the next several weeks, bringing the total of nine drive-thru test sites in Manitoba, which will remain available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The drive-thru site at 1066 Nairn Ave. in Winnipeg opened today and the additional Winnipeg location at 125 King Edward St. East is expected to open in late October.  A drive-thru site will open in Brandon at the Keystone Centre on Oct. 17.

A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at the Headingley Correctional Centre. The site is moving to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System. The facility has taken measures to mitigate risk including separating contacts and cases from the rest of the population, coupled with discontinuing visitation and transfers, and enhanced use of PPE.  

Additional possible exposures have been identified at:
•    Winnipeg Adult Education Centre at 310 Vaughan St. in Winnipeg on Oct. 5. Based on the public health investigation, the risk of this exposure was assessed to be low. The infection was not believed to be acquired at school. The cohort is being advised to self-monitor for symptoms and seek testing if symptoms develop.
•    Daniel McIntyre Collegiate at 720 Alverstone St. in Winnipeg on Sept. 29, 30 and Oct. 1. Based on the public health investigation, the risk of this exposure was assessed to be low. The infection was not believed to be acquired at school. The cohort is being advised to self-monitor for symptoms and seek testing if symptoms develop.
•    Dakota Collegiate at 661 Dakota St. in Winnipeg with two cases on Oct. 6 and Oct. 5, 6, and 7. Based on the public health investigation, the risk of these exposures was assessed to be low and are not linked. The infection was not believed to be acquired at school. Close contacts to one of the cases have been contacted to quarantine. The rest of the cohorts are being advised to self-monitor for symptoms and seek testing if symptoms develop.
•    Dufferin School, 545 Alexander Ave., Winnipeg on Sept. 30 and Oct. 2, this is the second case from the same cohort as a previous case at the school. This cohort and other close contacts have been advised to self-isolate (quarantine). While the investigation was not able to confirm if transmission took place at the school, the risk to the school community is still considered low.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has introduced exemptions to the Quarantine Act requirements for self-isolation related to international travel for compassionate or care-giving reasons. Provincial travel orders are being updated to reflect this change that Manitoba is supporting. People who are not displaying any symptoms of COVID-19 may travel to northern Manitoba or a remote community to:
•    care for a family member or friend who is seriously ill but is not in a health-care facility;
•    visit a family member or friend who is in a health-care facility with a life-threatening illness or injury if the health-care facility has authorized the visit; or
•    attend the funeral of a family member or friend.

In addition, people from outside northern Manitoba or a remote community and are required to self-isolate are travelling for these reasons, can complete their self-isolation in the north.

These changes are being made to ensure consistency with federal changes and set out processes for similar situations in Manitoba.

Work is in development to reduce wait times at testing locations by introducing an appointment-based scheduling system. Manitobans who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms will be able to call or go online to schedule an appointment to get tested. The appointment system, including details on how to schedule appointments by phone or online, will be rolled out in the next few weeks. Additionally, exploratory discussions are underway with Doctors Manitoba to enable community family doctors to provide after-hours COVID-19 testing to bring testing closer to home for Manitoba families.

Complementary counselling services to address the need for additional mental health support will now be offered through the expanded Mental Health Virtual Therapy Program. The service, set the begin today, will offer up to two counselling sessions, by phone or video and will be available in multiple languages. This complementary service will be offered until Dec. 31, when the program will be evaluated. To access this service, call (toll-free) 1-844-218-2955.

The chief provincial public health officer strongly encourages Manitobans to reduce the number of close contacts outside their household, and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces. In addition, they should focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
•    Stay home if you are sick.
•    Wash/sanitize your hands and cover your cough.
•    Physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
•    If you cannot physically distance, wear a mask to help reduce the risk to others or as required by public health orders.

Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.

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

For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

Last week, the Rod McGillvary Care Home announced that affective October 6^th they will not be allowing visitations to the care home until further notice, intended to keep residents safe during the pandemic.

The residents will still be allowed virtual visits and phone calls with their families.

The full statement can be found on the Opaskwayak Ininew Facebook Page.

The Otineka Mall Development Corporation issued a statement that they are now recommending that all patrons wear masks when they visit the mall to prevent the spread of COVID 19.

Management is also requesting that mall tenants enforce the new rule as well and the full statement can be found on the Opaskwayak Ininew Facebook Page.

In response to the recent provincial throne speech Flin Flon MLA Tom Lindsey says there was absolutely nothing for the north with no talk about resource development or fixing health care in the north. He says there are some concerns about the things they did talk about.

He explains all of it is leading to more privatization noting we’ve seen what they’ve done with Hydro selling off parts of it.  He says they’re going to start looking at privatizing more liquor sales for example, they’re going to look at privatizing road repairs and snow plowing so all of those things become more expensive and you get less service.

Lindsey added the NDP presented an alternative Throne Speech the day before dealing with child care, health care, hydro rates, small business support none of which were mentioned in the throne speech.

Public health officials advise the 28th, 29th and 30th deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a female in her 80s and a female in her 70s, both from Winnipeg and linked to the outbreak at Parkview Place, and a female in her 80s from Winnipeg linked to Heritage Lodge. These cases were previously announced. 

Opaskwayak Cree Nation is informing members that if you are planning to hold an event during the COVID 19 pandemic you must have a signed certificate by Cynthia Young as restrictions are constantly changing in all levels of Government which could have an effect on planned gatherings.

Events that don’t have a certificate could be shut down.

If you are planning an event contact Cynthia Young in advance at 204-978-0211,

A five step guild line to getting a certificate can be found on the Opaskwayak Ininew Facebook page.

York Factory First Nation issued a statement regarding COVID 19 in their community.

Cadham labs have completed its analysis of all tests from the community and all analysed tests came back negative.

The 14 day self isolation period for most COVID contacts in the community ends today but some have been instructed to self isolate longer.

The family affected with COVID 19 has completed their self isolation and are now considered to be recovered, but the family is planning to stay home to ensure everyone’s safety.

The Pas Fire Department is having a Fire Prevention Week 2020 poster contest.

The fire department wants you to design a poster that highlights your favourite fire prevention tip and there are several age categories including an open age group.

The deadline to submit posters is October 16^th 4:30 PM and you can submit posters to fpo@townofthepas.ca and they can also be dropped off at the Fire Hall or the Town Office.

Full Contest Rules can be found on The Pas Fire Departments Facebook Page.

Public health officials advise the 25th, 26th and 27th deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported, a female in her 90s from Winnipeg linked to the outbreak at Parkview Place, a male in his 70s from Winnipeg and a male is his 60s from the Stonewall district in Interlake–Eastern health region linked to a communal living community. These cases were previously announced. 

The Pas Fire Department responded to a call from a youth trapped in some playground equipment at Centennial Park last week.

The call came in around 8:11PM on September 28th and Fire Chief Randy Manych said the youth was caught in a piece of the playground equipment that was narrow.

Fire crews cut the piece of the equipment and freed the youth who was not injured and in good spirits.

Our MP Niki Ashton is calling on the Liberals to deliver assistance to trappers in Manitoba.

The Manitoba Trappers Association of Northwestern Manitoba is worried about the prices of furs and the ability to market their products during the pandemic.

Ashton stands firm that the Fur industry is a major economic lifeline for Northern Manitoba and requires attention and action.

Public health officials advise the 24th death due to COVID-19 has been reported, a female in her 70s from the Whitemud district in Prairie Mountain Health region. This was a previously announced case linked to an outbreak in a communal living community. 

Provincial public health officials are advising the public of a reported exposure of a case of COVID 19 in The Pas, OCN and the RM of Kelsey area.

The public health nurses and staff are conducting contact tracing and updates will be made available as the information comes in.

For updates visit manitoba.ca/covid19 You can also download the COVID alert app that will inform you of exposures.

The monthly mayor reports for September are finalized. The Pas had mostly mischief and disturbance of the peace cases 135 and 72 respectively.

The RM of Kelsey had mostly provincial traffic violations once again a total of 107 and the Community of Cormorant had four offences committed all together ranging from mischief to disturbance of the peace.

As part of breastfeeding week The Pas/OCN Breastfeeding Committee is inviting you to take part in their breastfeeding awareness photo campaign.

Anyone who supports breastfeeding can participate and the deadline to submit photos is Tomorrow.

More information can be found on the Breastfeeding Buddies in The Pas OCN Area Facebook page.

Public health officials advise the current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 2.4 per cent and 51 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. today, bringing the total number of cases in Manitoba to 2,191.

A couple from Opaskwayak Cree Nation are pleading with the public to help find their missing son. Morrish Linklater was last seen at OCN on Tuesday. Linklater is an 18 year old Aboriginal with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He is approximately 5'10" tall and was last seen wearing a green jacket and a red ball cap. If you see Morrish Linklater or know his whereabouts, please contact BillBarnhardt at (204) 620-0672 or the RCMP at (204) 627-6200. 

Our MP Niki Ashton spoke in the House of Commons last week to demand action from the Federal Government on York factories recent COVID 19 outbreak.

Ashton stated that one of the biggest challenges faced by First Nations during this pandemic is that they have been unable to self isolate because they live in crowded homes.

When asked what actions are government is taking to ensure that people can safely remain outside their community for their health, The Minister of indigenous services Marc Miller responded by saying a rapid response team arrived in the community and they are ensuring that community members that are affected are isolating and they are cautiously optimistic about the outcome and safety of the community.

Public health officials advise the 21st death related to COVID-19 has been reported in the Winnipeg health region. The individual was a male in his 70s and a previously announced case connected to Parkview Place. 

The Manitoba government is calling on the Government of Canada to reverse its ban on the direct sale to provinces of a new rapid test for COVID-19, Central Services Minister Reg Helwer announced today.  

“Our government is committed to increasing access to COVID-19 testing for Manitobans,” said Helwer. “We were pleased to learn that Health Canada had approved the Abbott ID NOW rapid test for use. Access to testing is top of mind for Manitobans, which is why our government attempted to place an order for these new tests within 24 hours of Health Canada’s announcement.”

When Manitoba officials contacted Abbott to place an order for the new ID NOW rapid test, they were informed the Government of Canada is blocking the sale of this test directly to provincial governments.

“This is a completely unacceptable action by the federal government,” added Helwer. “Although the federal government has secured its own supply, it has indicated that it will decide how that supply will be allocated. Provincial governments are the front-line providers of health care in this country and are best able to determine their own needs.”

The federal government’s actions are the latest in a series of clear examples where provincial needs are being disregarded, the minister said.

Earlier this year, an order of two million N95 masks placed by the Government of Manitoba was blocked by the U.S. government and redirected to Ottawa. Because of these federal seizures, Manitoba has only received a fraction of the quantities to which we were entitled, Helwer noted.

“The federal government has also cancelled funding for a program to help improve fibre-optic access in northern Manitoba,” said Helwer. “The cancellation of this $55-million federal commitment reinforces the importance of our government’s work to engage the thousands of kilometres of fibre-optic cable owned by Manitoba Hydro. This pandemic has reinforced the need for access to reliable internet, which is why the province of Manitoba is stepping up to connect rural and northern communities using a publicly owned asset that has sat idle for far too long.”

Premier Brian Pallister has written to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to express Manitoba’s disappointment in the federal government blocking Manitoba’s access to an important tool to increase COVID-19 testing capacity. The premier is asking the prime minister to relieve immediately Abbott of any prohibitions on the sale of the ID NOW rapid test to Manitoba, which will enable the provincial government to make immediate arrangements for the purchase of sufficient testing machines and kits to meet the needs of Manitobans.

Health Canada has released a new COVID Alert app to help warn residents across the country if they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

You can also use it to quickly report a COVID-19 diagnosis in Manitoba and select participating provinces.

The app strives to collect as little personal information as possible, and does not rely on your phone's GPS.

You can find the app here

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-alert.html

Next week is fire prevention week and the slogan for this year is "Serving up Fire Safety in the Kitchen.

Lars Pillipow Fire Prevention Officer for The Pas has some tips on how to prevent kitchen fires.

It’s recommended not to leave your cooking unattended and to keep pot handles turned towards the stove but not over the burners to avoid having them knocked over.

When it comes to putting out grease fires Pillipow recommends using a fire extinguisher at a safe distance because if deployed to close the compressed air could spread the fire.

You can also put out grease fires using baking soda or by putting a lid or a damp cloth on the pans.

Water should never be used to put a grease fire.

Kelsey School Division Chair Vaughn Wadelius spoke to Arctic Radio to talk about their board meeting held earlier this week.

The schools are also planning for the possibility of more COVID 19 related restrictions.

If there is a change in the social distancing rules that would mean that half the students couldn’t attend and Wadlius hopes to avoid the possibility of all the students having to stay home as he feels it would be difficult for students to access remote learning.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 2.1 per cent and 36 new cases of the virus have been identified as of 9:30 a.m. today, bringing the number of cases in Manitoba to 2,029.
 
The data shows:
•    four cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
•    two in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
•    two cases in Southern Health–Santé Sud; and
•    28 cases in the Winnipeg health region.
 
The data also shows:
•    621 active cases and 1,388 individuals have recovered from COVID-19;
•    there are 15 people in hospital and seven people in intensive care; and
•    the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 20.
 
Confirmed laboratory testing numbers show 1,803 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 186,668. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials have advised the following school about possible exposures:
•    Carberry Collegiate in Carberry: a second case was at the school on Monday, Sept. 21. No close contacts have been identified and the infection was not acquired at school.

In addition, the public is being advised of possible exposures at:
•    Subway, 200 First Ave., Carberry on Sept. 26 from approximately 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Health Canada COVID Alert app is now available to Manitoba residents and provides digital COVID-19 exposure alerts once the app is downloaded to a smartphone.? It is available at no cost in the Apple and Google Play app stores.? For more information, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19/updates/covidalert.html.

Manitobans are encouraged to continue seeking care for their medical needs including routine appointments and immunizations.  Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 7 the requirement for non-medical masks in all Manitoba health facilities will extend to doctors’ offices and community service providers affiliated with Manitoba’s health regions. Anyone seeking treatment in or visiting a public health-care setting will be required to bring and wear a non-medical mask. Accommodations do exist for those who are not able to wear a mask for medical reasons.

The chief provincial public health officer strongly encourages Manitobans to reduce the number of close contacts outside their household, and avoid closed-in or crowded spaces. In addition, they should focus on these fundamentals to help stop the spread of COVID-19:
•    Stay home if you are sick.
•    Wash/sanitize your hands and cover your cough.
•    Physically distance when you are with people outside your household.
•    If you cannot physically distance, wear a mask to help reduce the risk to others or as required by public health orders.
 
Unless recommended by public health officials, only individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should go for testing. Individuals with symptoms are asked to seek testing as soon as possible once symptoms are present. Employers are asked to only send employees for testing if they have symptoms or if testing has been recommended by public health officials.
 
The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/updates/about.html#collapse4.
 
For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.
 
For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.