The Pas Local News Archives for 2020-12

COVID-19 BULLETIN #300

Public health officials advise six additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 70s from the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; and
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Poseidon Care Centre.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 11.2 per cent provincially and 10.4 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 187 new cases of the virus have been identified, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 24,700.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 18 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 38 cases in the Northern health region;
• seven cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 33 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 91 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 4,505 active cases and 19,528 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 247 people in hospital with active COVID-19 as well as 90 people in hospital with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require care, for a total of 337 hospitalizations;
• there are 33 people in intensive care units (ICU) with active COVID-19 as well as four people with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require critical care for a total of 37 ICU patients; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 667.

RCMP Arrest Two Males in Homicide Investigation in Cranberry Portage

Cranberry Portage RCMP responded to a report of a deceased male at a residence in Cold Lake on the evening of December 27th.

 

When the police attended the 50 year old victim’s body was found in a residence and The Pas Forensic identification Services attended to assist with the investigation.

 

As a result of the investigation two 22 year old men from Pukatawagan were arrested and charged with manslaughter.

 

The suspects were scheduled to appear in The Pas court on Dec 30th.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #299

Public health officials advise two additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:

  • A female in her 70s from the Northern health region and linked to the outbreak at Thompson General Hospital MSP ward; and
  • A female in her 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region and linked to the outbreak at Fairview Personal Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 12.6 per cent provincially and 11.9 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 130 new cases of the virus have been identified, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 24,513.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:

  • 11 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
  • 11 cases in the Northern health region;
  • 8 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
  • 8 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
  • 92 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:

  • 4,444 active cases and 19,408 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19
  • there are 248 people in hospital with active COVID-19 as well as 89 people in hospital with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require care, for a total of 337 hospitalizations;
  • there are 32 people in intensive care units with active COVID-19 as well as four people with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require critical care for a total of 36 ICU patients; and
  • the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 661.

Laboratory testing numbers show 1,193 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 419,542. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Operators of Off Road Vehicles Must Obey Laws and Safety Rules

Manitoba RCMP report every year they respond to numerous calls about snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, dirt bikes and other off road vehicles. They remind you when operating off road vehicles on public land such as ditches, roads or groomed snowmobile trails the vehicle must be registered.

 

You must be at least 14 years old to operate the vehicle without supervision, must not operate on a roadway or shoulder, may only cross a roadway or shoulder at an intersection or designated off road vehicle crossing such as a snowmobile trail crossing while holding a valid driver’s licence and must not carry open liquor or cannabis.

 

Sergeant Mark Hume with Westman Traffic Services notes this past year 50 percent of fatal ORV collisions involved alcohol and or drugs.  He pointed out in 60 percent of the collisions reported to police the operator was found to be driving too fast and either lost control or struck an object and of those killed one in three were not wearing a helmet adding all of these deaths could have been prevented.

 

COVID-19 BULLETIN #298

Public health officials advise five additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Home;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Oakview Extended Care Facility;
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at the Portage District General Hospital; and
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 12.4 per cent provincially and 12.1 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 133 new cases of the virus have been identified, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 24,385.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• six cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• three cases in the Northern health region;
• five cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 22 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 97 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 4,424 active cases and 19,302 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 246 people in hospital with active COVID-19 as well as 92 people in hospital with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require care, for a total of 338 hospitalizations;
• there are 32 people in intensive care units with active COVID-19 as well as four people with COVID-19 who are no longer infectious but continue to require critical care for a total of 36 ICU patients; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 659.

MKO on Moderna Vaccine

Last week, MKO responded to the announcement of Health Canada approving the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19.

 

Echoing past statements, Grand Chief Garrison Settee says MKO still has no information about when either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine will be distributed or made available to MKO citizens.

 

Settee specifically asked about when off-reserve First Nations people living in Winnipeg will receive the vaccine, and if health care workers from First Nations communities will get access to the vaccine anytime soon.

 

He once again requested clearer and ongoing communication from the province to ensure First Nations leadership are in the loop when it comes to distribution plans for First Nations communities.

Letter sent to the Prime Minister

Last Week, Niki Ashton and two other NDP MP’s sent an letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urging the Liberal Government to release a vaccination plan for indigenous communities and for Indigenous communities to have access to the COVID 19 vaccine on a priority basis.

The letter stated that indigenous communities have been dealing with outbreaks and leaders have been sounding the alarm over the lack of consultation regarding vaccine distribution.

It is not clear as of news time if the Federal Government has a plan for distribution vaccines to indigenous communities.

The Pas Friendship Centre Closing for The Holidays

The Pas Friendship Centre announced that they will be closed starting today and they will reopening on January 4th.

 

The friendship centre apologizes for any inconvenience and would like to wish everyone happy holidays.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #294

Public health officials advise 15 additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 70s from the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Interlake–Eastern health region, linked to an outbreak at Kin Place in Oakbank;
• a female in her 70s from the Northern health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health – Santé Sud health region, linked to an outbreak at the Portage District General Hospital Medical Unit in Portage la Prairie;
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to an outbreak at Morris General Hospital in Morris;
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at an outbreak at Grace Hospital Unit 3 North;
• a female in her 60s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Poseidon Care Centre;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at Park Manor Care Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Poseidon Care Centre; and
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at Oakview Place personal care home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 10.4 per cent provincially and 10.2 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 201 new cases of the virus have been identified, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 23,381.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 15 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 31 cases in the Northern health region;
• 14 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 23 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
• 118 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 4,427 active cases and 18,349 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 259 people in hospital with 37 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 605.

Manitoba Government Providing Support for Restaurants Affected by COVID 19 Restrictions

Yesterday the Manitoba Government announced that they will be providing 5 million dollars to the provincial chamber of commerce to develop a program that will provide financial relief to dine in restaurants that have been affected by COVID 19 restrictions.

 

Premier Brian Pallister says Manitoba’s restaurants have made a lot of sacrifices in order to halt the spread of the virus and the government will continue to work with businesses to identify industry needs.

 

The dine in restaurant relief program is the second program rolled out from a multimillion dollar investment.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #293

Public health officials advise 18 additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today, including:

  • a female in her 80s from the Interlake-Eastern health region, linked to an outbreak at Kin Place in Oakbank;
  • a female in her 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to an outbreak at Fairview Home in Brandon;
  • a female in her 90s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to an outbreak at the Grandview Personal Care Home in Grandview;
  • a female in her 100s from the Southern Health - Sante Sud health region. 
  • a female in her 60s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; 
  • a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
  • a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region. 
  • a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region.
  • a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home; 
  • a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home;
  • a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg region, linked to an outbreak at the St Norbert Personal Care Home;
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home; 
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home;
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home;
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the N3E family medicine unit at Concordia Hospital;
  • a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home; and
  • a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Oakview Place personal care home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 11.5 per cent provincially and 10.5 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 155 new cases of the virus have been identified, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 23,180.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:

  • 9 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
  • 27 cases in the Northern health region;
  • 10 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
  • 17 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
  • 92 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:

  • 4,382 active cases and 18,208 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
  • there are 275 people in hospital with 36 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
  • the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 590.

Niki Ashton and Don Davies Press Conference

Our MP Niki Ashton and NDP Critic for Health Don Davies held a virtual press conference yesterday to address the current COVID 19 situation.

 

While Ashton continues to fight for the things Northern Manitoba and Indigenous communities need during this difficult time Davies says Canadians need to follow public health guidelines and instructions that are being given during the pandemic and we now have to go into a serious lockdown if we are going to get a grip on this second wave of COVID 19.

 

He says if travel is advised against or prohibited then people need to care about each other to follow that advice adding it’s the only way that we are going to get control of this situation.

 

Davies stated that he supported the decision by the federal government to suspend flights to the UK in response to the new COVID strain that was discovered there, adding that he hopes that Canada has learnt its lesson about closing borders early when there is a reported outbreak.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #292

Public health officials advise four additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 60s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; and
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to an outbreak at the Park Manor Care.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 11.5 per cent provincially and 10.5 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 167 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was corrected and removed. This means the net new number of cases is 166, which brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 23,025.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• nine cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 25 cases in the Northern health region;
• seven cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 43 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 83 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,736 active cases and 16,717 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 310 people in hospital with 42 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 572.

Laboratory testing numbers show 1,949 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 405,724. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.  

A new outbreak has been declared at Concordia Place personal care home in Winnipeg. The site has been moved to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System.

The outbreak at Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River has been declared over.

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 reminds Manitobans to immediately self-isolate at the onset of possible COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild. This means staying home from work, school or other daily activities. Testing should be done as soon as possible once symptoms appear. For information on COVID-19 symptoms and guidance on when you should be tested, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

Manitobans should only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.

Additional data related to COVID-19, including data on outbreaks as well as some downloadable and historic data can be found at https://manitoba.ca/openmb/datamb/.  Updated enforcement statistics are posted online weekly. For more information, go to the Cross-Departmental Reports section at:
https://manitoba.ca/openmb/infomb/departments/index.html.

Public health officials are also advising that if anyone is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results. For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work after contacting their workplace occupational health services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html.

The online COVID-19 self-assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

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.
 

NDP calls for federal plan to get vaccine to Indigenous communities

OTTAWA – Today, NDP Health Critic Don Davies (Vancouver Kingsway) and NDP MP Niki Ashton (Churchill–Keewatinook Aski), called on the federal government to develop an immediate plan in consultation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine.
 
“Public health experts have been clear that Indigenous communities are more vulnerable to COVID-19 and many are experiencing very high infection rates,” Davies said. “They must be a priority for the vaccine, yet we have heard nothing from the Trudeau government as to how they intend to get the vaccine to remote communities. As the Federal Government is directly responsible for Indigenous health, this is an urgent priority that must be immediately addressed.”
 
Ashton noted that while provincial governments are playing a key role, there is concern that Indigenous communities will lose out as they are not included in the discussions around the vaccine roll-out. Given the logistical complexities regarding the transportation and the storage of the Pfizer vaccine, many remote and rural communities are concerned that it won’t reach those who need it the most.
 
“We need to ensure it’s not a patchwork approach to delivering the vaccine to Indigenous communities,” Ashton said. “There are outbreaks in every region of the country, all under federal jurisdiction, and we need a coordinated plan now. First Nations and Métis leaders are clear: the vaccine must be there for the people who need it, but they are hearing nothing from the federal government. They must be full partners in developing a plan and there is no time to waste.”
 
Davies and Ashton urged the relevant Federal Ministers to consult and collaborate immediately with Indigenous leaders and Indigenous health agencies to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine to vulnerable communities as a top federal priority.

The RCMP Offering Safety Tips to Protect Your Parcels

The RCMP remind you with the holiday season in full swing parcel theft is a growing concern this year with the increase in online shopping. With home deliveries expected to hit an all-time high during the holiday season packages left unattended on your door step make for easy targets for would be thieves.

 

To keep your parcels safe the RCMP recommend installing security camera or a smart doorbell, choose an alternate delivery location for your packages such as a nearby Post Office or your place of employment, consider the use of a delivery locker on your property or request a signature on delivery. 

 

They add a good way to defend against this type of crime is working together with you neighbors and make arrangements to pick up your packages if you won’t be home for an extended period.  If you believe you may have been a victim of theft or witnessed a porch theft contact the police immediately.

Kelsey School Division Principal Retiring After 34 Years

Kelsey School Division Principal Louise Loewen is retiring after almost 34 years of service.

 

She started her tenure as a history and English teacher at Margaret Barbour Collegiate before moving on to primary grades at the other schools.

 

She was later appointed as assistant principal at Opasquia School before moving to Mary Duncan School a few years ago. She was appointed principal of Mary Duncan School last year.

 

Chair Vaughn Wadelius says she has always did her best to meet the needs of her students and would like to wish her well in her retirement.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #289

Public health officials advise 10 additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 40s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 50s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at the Morris General Hospital;
• a female in her 60s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Interlake–Eastern health region, linked to the outbreak at Kin Place; 
• a male in his 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at the Gilbert Plains personal care home;
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at the Salem Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; and
• a male in his 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.6 per cent provincially and 13.1 in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 350 new cases of the virus have been identified and brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 22,397.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 40 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 89 cases in the Northern health region;
• 31 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 57 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 133 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,602 active cases and 16,248 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 305 people in hospital with 43 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 547.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #288

Public health officials advise 14 additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 30s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a female in her 50s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 50s from the Interlake–Eastern health region. 
• a male in his 60s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a male in his 80s from the Interlake–Eastern health region, linked to the outbreak at the Kin Place;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; 
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Maples Long Term Care Home;  
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg;
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; and
• a female in her 100s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Maples Long Term Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13 per cent provincially and 13.2 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 221 new cases of the virus have been identified and brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 22,047.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 21 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 51 cases in the Northern health region;
• 11 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 27 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 111 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,829 active cases and 15,681 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 314 people in hospital with 42 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 537.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,235 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 396,779. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Additional data related to outbreaks at correctional and health-care facilities and personal care homes is now available online. Downloadable and historic data is also available for some of the information. The data can be found at https://manitoba.ca/openmb/datamb/.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #287

Public health officials advise 15 additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 40s from the Interlake–Eastern health region, linked to outbreak at Kin Place; 
• a male in his 50s from the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• a female in her 50s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Concordia Hospital unit N3W;
• a male in his 60s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a male in his 70s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at the Fairview Home;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home; 
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home;  
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Sante Sud health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at the Swan Valley Health Centre; 
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Care Home; 
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Care Home; and
• a female in her 100s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.6 per cent provincially and 13.7 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 292 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction making the net total 291 and brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 21,826.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 24 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 47 cases in the Northern health region;
• 35 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 28 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 158 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,797 active cases and 15,506 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 328 people in hospital with 46 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 523.

The Pas Santa Claus Parade Cancelled

The Pas Community Renewal Corporation announced that they have chosen to cancel this year’s Santa Claus parade in order to keep people safe and healthy during the pandemic.

 

According to their statement this decision was made reluctantly but they look forward to making next year’s parade better than ever and they thank the public for their understanding during this difficult time.

 

They encourage everyone to stay safe and healthy this holiday season.

Kelsey School Lockdown over Reports of a Person Carrying a Firearm

Last week The Pas RCMP responded to an incident at Kelsey School. On the afternoon of December 11th at 3:30 the police responded to a call of a person that was lying down in the middle of the road near the school.

 

While the police attend to the man lying on the street the Kelsey School Staff locked down the school because there were also reports of a man walking in the vicinity that may have been carrying a firearm.

 

Once police dealt with the person lying on the road they conducted patrols and did not find anyone carrying a firearm.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #286

Public health officials advise nine additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today including: 

a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region; 
a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre;
a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region;  
a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Care Home;  
a female in her 90s from the Interlake–Eastern health region, linked to the outbreak at the Kin Place;
a female in her 90s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Fairview Home;  
a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre; and
a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Personal Care Home.
 
The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 14.2 per cent provincially and 13.4 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 272 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction, making the net total 271 and brings the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 21,535.
 
Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
15 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
53 cases in the Northern health region;
49 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
25 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
130 cases in the Winnipeg health region. 
 
The data also shows:
5,762 active cases and 15,265 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19; 
there are 311 people in hospital, with 44 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 508. 
 
Laboratory testing numbers show 1,561 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 392,078. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.
 
The outbreaks declared at Vita and District Transitional Care Centre in Vita and Cedarwood Supporting Housing in Steinbach are over. 
 
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. 
 
At this time, there is a very limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine. Only eligible front-line health providers will be immunized with the first 900 doses, which are expected this week. Members of the public have been calling for appointments, which means eligible health-care providers cannot get through. If you are not an eligible front-line health provider, do not call for an appointment. More information will be shared with the public about immunization clinics as the supply of vaccine increases.
 
The chief provincial public health officer urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.
 
Public health officials are also advising that anyone who is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results. For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work after contacting your workplace occupational health services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html
 
The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.
 
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:

Letter Sent to The Town From Minister Stefanson on Homelessness in the North

A letter sent to the Town of The Pas from Manitoba’s Deputy Premier and Minister of families was scheduled to be brought up at last night’s council meeting.

 

According to Minister Heather Stefanson’s letter the Government is committed to improving access to safe shelter space and affordable housing during the pandemic.

 

The letter also stated that the province deployed staff in the department of families to help operate the Oscars Place Homeless Shelter and they also provided the staff at the shelter with PPE items.

 

The letter was in response to a resolution made back in the spring by the town that would lobby the province to provide supports to address the homeless population during the pandemic.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #285

Public health officials advise nine additional deaths in people with COVID-19 have been reported today, including:
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 50s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Personal Care Home;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Fred Douglas Lodge;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg; and
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud region, linked to the outbreak at the Rest Haven Nursing Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.6 per cent provincially and 13 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 241 new cases of the virus have been identified, bringing the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 21,264.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 10 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 23 cases in the Northern health region;
• 12 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 38 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 158 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,791 active cases and 14,974 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 303 people in hospital with 39 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 499.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #282

Public health officials advise 14 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today, including:
•    a male in his 50s from the Winnipeg health region;  
•    a male in his 50s from the Winnipeg health region;
•    a male in his 70s from the Interlake-Eastern health region;
•    a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to outbreak at the Health Science Centre GD4;
•    a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;  
•    a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Personal Care Home;  
•    a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Personal Care Home;
•    a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
•    a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
•    a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Saul & Claribel Simkin Centre;
•    a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home;  
•    a male in his 90s from the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region and linked to the outbreak at Rest Haven Nursing Home;
•    a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region; and
•    a female in her 100s from the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region and linked to the outbreak at Villa Youville Personal Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.8 per cent provincially and 13.2 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 447 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, two cases were removed due to a data correction bringing the new total to 445. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba is 20,392.

 
Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
•    43 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
•    136 cases in the Northern health region;
·    35 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
·    40 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
·    193 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
·    5,517 active cases and 14,410 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
·    there are 297 people in hospital with 40 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
·    the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 465.

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce Receives $10,000 Grant to Help Small Businesses

Last week the Manitoba Government announced their commitment of 1.5 Million dollars to the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to help support and protect businesses affected by the covid 19 pandemic and The Pas and district Chamber of Commerce has received a $10,000 grant.

 

Part of the grant will be used to boost the shop local holiday program and to re launch the COVID 19 heroes program.

 

The Pas Chamber would like to thank the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and the Province for their support.

MLA Amanda Lathlin

On December 3, session came to an end meaning that the Legislative Assembly will be on break until March. However, Members of the Legislative Assembly will continue to work remotely from home within our constituencies.

 

My office has been receiving a lot of calls about the provincial and federal joint wage top-up program that provides some healthcare workers with an additional $5 an hour. In particular, many workers have been calling asking why they don’t qualify for this program, while others do.

 

For example, home care workers do not qualify, but workers in Long Term Care homes do. Home care workers do similar work and are at similar risk of COVID exposure as well as they go directly into people’s homes, not knowing who their patients have previously been in contact with.

 

Many other workers don’t qualify such as healthcare aides, housekeeping staff, dietary staff and more. This government drew an arbitrary line between who qualifies and who doesn’t when they introduced this program. This creates unnecessary division between workers.

 

In reality, many workers put their health and lives at risk every day doing their job, often for very little pay. These workers deserve financial recognition for the work that they do and that’s why several of my NDP colleagues and CUPE Local 204 President Debbie Boissoneault recently held a press conference calling on the government to expand the program so that none of these workers are left behind. I would like to thank my constituents who’ve called and I want to tell them that their voices did not fall on deaf ears.

 

The Pallister government also recently announced that grade 7-12 students would enter a two-week mandatory remote learning period after the winter break, whereas grade K-6 students would have the option to do in-person or remote learning. The rationale behind this decision is to allow for an ‘incubation period’ after the holidays, as they are expecting COVID numbers to increase as people gather for Christmas, despite restrictions in place to only socialize within your household.

 

However, internet access and laptops/computers are not readily available to all students, making remote learning impossible for many. As well, teachers will have to manage an even greater workload, especially K-6 teachers who may have to teach in-person and online. We are asking too much of our teachers and students if the government doesn’t provide them with additional supports such as hiring more teachers, or providing students with the needed technology.

 

I wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season! Please feel free to reach out with any questions, comments or concerns over the holidays to  Amanda.lathlin@yourmanitoba.ca or call (204) 623-2034. Kinanaskomitin

COVID-19 BULLETIN #281

Public health officials advise 13 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 70s from the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Villa Youville personal care home;
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Park Manor Care Home;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Park Manor Care Home;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre; and
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.3 per cent provincially and 13.9 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 293 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction bringing the new total to 292. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba is 19,947.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 39 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 41 cases in the Northern health region;
• 12 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 49 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 152 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,380 active cases and 14,116 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 298 people in hospital with 43 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the total number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 451.

Monthly Mayor Reports November

The monthly mayor reports for November have been released. The Pas saw mostly disturbance of the peace and mischief cases, 106 and 102 respectively.  

 

The RM of Kelsey had mainly provincial traffic violations a total of 25 and the community of Cormorant had 5 offences altogether ranging from assault to breach of the peace.

Norway House RCMP Respond to Fatal Snowmobile Collision

At around 8:30 in the morning on Monday the RCMP in Norway House responded to a report of a snowmobile Collision on the ice near Mission Island.

 

The snowmobile had two occupants a 20 year old male and a 19 year old female and they were traveling southbound on the ice when there snowmobile collided with a dock.

 

The occupants were both pronounced dead at the scene and they were not wearing helmets.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #280

Public health officials advise 18 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 50s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 50s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Health Science Centre unit GA3; 
• a female in her 60s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 60s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; 
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Victoria General Hospital unit 4S;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Maples Long Term Care Home;
• a male in his 80’s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Park Manor Care Home;
• a female in her 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Grandview Personal Care Home; 
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Misericordia Health Centre's Transitional Unit;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Park Manor Care Home; and
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Personal Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.5 per cent provincially and 14.5 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 280 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction bringing the new total to 279. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 19,655.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 27 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 19 cases in the Northern health region;
• 15 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 26 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 193 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,348 active cases and 13,869 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 300 people in hospital with 38 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 438.

Canadian Press NewsAlert: Health Canada approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine

Health Canada has approved the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer and BioNTech, the first to be given the green light for national use.

 

Canada is set to receive four million doses of the Pfizer vaccine by March, including up to 249,000 doses this month, with the first shipment set to arrive next week.

 

The federal government has purchased 20 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine, which requires people to receive two doses each, and has the option to buy 56 million more.

 

Pfizer needs to store its vaccine at ultracold temperatures - below -70 C - and so the company is planning to ship the doses directly to provinces.

Health Canada is reviewing three other vaccine candidates, including one from Moderna, which is set to deliver two million doses to Canada in the first quarter of 2021.

 

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends that provinces and territories give their first doses to residents and staff of long-term care homes and adults 80 years of age or older.

Kelsey Community School Remote Learning Procedures and the Upcoming Winter Break

Kelsey Community School Principal Jay Marin spoke to Arctic Radio about their remote learning procedures and the upcoming winter break.

 

It was announced that the winter holiday will be extended for two weeks in schools across the province but the Kelsey Community School will still offer in class learning for students in Kindergarten to Grade 6.

 

Marin says he understands that there will be some apprehension from parents and caregivers to sending children to school.

 

Parents and care givers that are not comfortable sending their children to school should inform their childs teacher that they will not be sending their child to school so that teachers can make work packages for the students. Parents or caregivers will be required to pick up the package once it’s put together. 

 

Parents and caregivers that have any questions or concerns should not hesitate to contact Kelsey Community School at 204-623-7421.

 

UCN will be offering a Direct Health Care support workers program in the north next month.

Northern Health Region CEO Helga Bryant explains the program is being offered in partnership with the Health Region and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council to address the vacancies in long-term care homes across the region that have been pushed to the forefront thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.  She explains this program is a twelve day program offered as face to face learning and it will prepare the students as a direct health care support worker in their long term care facilities.  She says they’re calling it a pilot project and it involves work integrated learning so the student can move to a nine week extended orientation that will actually occur while they’re working so the students work , they’re in their employ while they’re doing this program so they’re working, they’re gaining income and they’re gaining an education.

 

The program is slated to start January 4th, and applications are due on December 14th.

 

For more details on the Direct Health Care Support Workers program, visit  ucn DOT ca.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #279

Public health officials advise 13 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Charleswood Care Centre;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Charleswood Care Centre;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Greendale Estates;
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at  Rest Haven Care Home; 
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Holy Family Personal Care Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Park Manor Care Home; 
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Misericordia Health Centre’s Transitional Unit; and
• a female in her 100s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Fairview Personal Care Home. 

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.3 per cent provincially and 13.9 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 245 new cases of the virus have been identified. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 19,376.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 34 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 23 cases in the Northern health region;
• 29 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 33 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 126 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,379 active cases and 13,577 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 311 people in hospital with 38 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 420.

 

 

SAFE AT HOME PROGRAM LAUNCHED BY PROVINCE FOR HOLIDAY SEASON

The Manitoba government has launched a new Safe at Home Manitoba grant, which will enable people staying home this holiday season to enjoy creative cultural, artistic, and fitness activities delivered by Manitoba organizations and businesses, Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox and Municipal Relations Minister Rochelle Squires announced today.

“We are excited to invite organizations from across the province to create programs that bring Manitobans together while we are physically apart,” said Cox. “Manitoba is home to so many diverse artists, cultural organizations and festivals, and I look forward to enjoying all the creative ways they can bring safe at home ideas into our own homes.”

The Safe at Home Manitoba grant will provide $3 million in grant funding to a wide variety of Manitoba organizations and individuals who are able to produce free programming for Manitobans to stay safe at home, such as live streaming of the performing arts, cooking classes, at-home fitness programs, and home-based art programs for children.

“We recognize that staying home this holiday season as we fight the pandemic, and not being able to see our friends and family will be difficult,” said Squires. “This gives us an additional reason to stay home with our family, enjoy these home-grown Manitoba activities together and help make this time easier for us all.”

The province has partnered with five organizations that will adjudicate the grants, as well as actively seek out organizations to take part in the program. Partners include the Manitoba Arts Council, Sport Manitoba, The Winnipeg Foundation, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and the United Way of Winnipeg.

Eligible applicants for the grant include Manitoba municipalities, First Nations, local authorities, not-for-profits, charitable and for-profit businesses, government agencies, post-secondary institutions, and individual artists and are eligible to apply for up to $50,000 per project.

Grant requests may include the following:
• new projects that support social inclusion, mental health and physical wellness while staying home;
• expansion or additions to existing projects including the removal of fees or costs to participate;
• equipment or supplies required to deliver a program or project; and?
• administration or event costs?directly?related to?program delivery.

A number of programs are already scheduled to begin in December including:
• Legislative Building Open House – Manitoba’s holiday tradition will go online with a live broadcast of music, live performances and messages from Manitoba’s elected officials on Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.
• Royal Manitoba Theatre Company – A pre-filmed variety show featuring dozens of artists will be available to all Manitobans for download and streaming beginning Dec. 19; and
• Skills Manitoba – Manitoba families will be invited to complete a gingerbread house making exercise that tests creativity and geometry skills.

As well, special initiatives are in store from Festival du Voyageur, Sport Manitoba, The Manitoba Museum, and Manitoba Parks.

For more information on how to apply, as well as additional online programming listed above, visit the Safe at Home Manitoba website at www.SafeAtHomeMB.ca.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #278

Public health officials advise 12 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 60s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Health Science Centre unit GA3; 
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Grandview Personal Care Home; 
• a female in her 70s from the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Golden Links Lodge; 
• a female in her 80s from the Northern health region, linked to the outbreak at Acute Care Inpatient Unit of The Pas Health Complex, St. Anthony's General Hospital;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home; and
• a male in his 90s from the Northern health region. 

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.7 per cent provincially and 14.6 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 325 new cases of the virus have been identified. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 19,131.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 38 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 37 cases in the Northern health region;
• 20 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 39 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 191 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 5,462 active cases and 13,262 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 310 people in hospital with 39 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 407.

Laboratory testing numbers show 1,736 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 373,260. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise COVID-19 outbreaks have been declared at the Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River and Action Marguerite – St. Joseph’s Residence, Kildonan Personal Care Centre and Convalescent Home all in Winnipeg. The sites have been moved to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System.

In addition, public health officials advise that a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 attended a funeral in Sapotaweyak Cree Nation on Nov. 27 when they were in their infectious period. People who attended the funeral should self-isolate and call the local health centre for further instructions.

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 urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.

Public health officials are also advising that anyone who is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results. For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work. Contact your workplace Occupational Health Services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

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 -

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Christmas Hamper Drive

The results for the Opaskwayak Cree Nation Christmas Hamper drive for this year are in.

 

Over $70,000 was raised this year beating last year’s record of around $32,000.

 

Funds raised will provide food for less fortunate families for a holiday dinner.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #275

Public health officials advise nine additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 50s from the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• a male in his 60s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Lions Manor Senior Housing;
• a female in her 90s from Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Fairview Personal Care Home; 
• a female in her 90s from Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Fairview Personal Care Home; 
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Holy Family Personal Care Home; and
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.4 per cent provincially and 14.6 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 320 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, two cases were removed due to a data correction bringing the total to 318 and the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 18,069.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 16 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 30 cases in the Northern health region;
• 20 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 54 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
• 200 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 9,172 active cases and 8,535 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 361 people in hospital with 55 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 362.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,706 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 365,707. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise COVID-19 an outbreak has been declared at the Brandon Correctional Centre in Brandon. The site has been moved to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System.

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 urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.

Public health officials are also advising that anyone who is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results. For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work. Contact your workplace Occupational Health Services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

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.

COVID 19 By Law Enforcement Officers

The Town of The Pas announced yesterday that the community now has temporary acting COVID 19 by-law enforcement officers to ensure that COVID related measures are being followed to stop the spread of the virus and they will be helping the community in any way possible.

 

According to a post from the Town of The Pas Community Updates Facebook page the two acting by-law officers are Yessica Luce and Candace Mack and they will be working to ensure that people wear masks in public, ensure members are able to maintain a two metre separation, and ensure non essential items are inaccessible to the public.

 

If you have any questions or concerns call 204-627-1135

COVID-19 BULLETIN #274

Public health officials advise 12 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 30s from the Interlake–Eastern health region; 
• a male in his 50s from the Northern health region; 
• a male in his 50s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at the Menno Home;
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Golden Links Lodge; 
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; 
• a female in her 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Fernwood Place; 
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Maples Long Term Care Home;   
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Golden Links Lodge;
• a male in his 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at the Menno Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.1 per cent provincially and 14.9 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 368 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction bringing the total to 367 and the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 17,750.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 21 cases in the Interlake-Eastern health region;
• 48 cases in the Northern health region;
• 31 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 57 cases in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region; and
• 211 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 9,129 active cases and 8,268 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 357 people in hospital with 52 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 353. Note, due to a data error, one death that had been reported earlier has been removed.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,913 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 362,973. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

Public health officials advise COVID-19 an outbreak has been declared at the River Park Gardens Personal Care Home in Winnipeg. The site has been moved to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System.

The outbreaks declared at The Pas Homeless Shelter – Oscar's Place in The Pas and Victoria General Hospital unit 5 North and 5 South in Winnipeg have been declared over.

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 urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.

Public health officials are also advising that anyone who is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results.  For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work. Contact your workplace Occupational Health Services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

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.

PROTECTING MANITOBANS TOP PRIORITY AS PROVINCE PREPARES FOR COVID-19 VACCINES

The Manitoba government has made significant progress to ensure the province is ready to launch a co-ordinated and effective vaccination campaign to protect its most at-risk citizens from COVID-19, Premier Brian Pallister announced today, noting these efforts will be further enhanced by the expansion of rapid testing initiatives including one specifically for teachers.

“Quite simply, we want Manitobans to know that when the COVID-19 vaccine arrives, we will be ready,” said Pallister. “Our team of hundreds of dedicated Manitobans has been planning and preparing for months, for a vaccination campaign that will be unlike anything else this province has ever seen. We are assembling the necessary people, equipment and other resources to we can rapidly stand up a large-scale, ‘super site’ vaccine campaign, as soon as the vaccine is delivered.” 

The premier noted that Manitoba has also procured all of the necessary supplies to administer safely and effectively two doses of the vaccine to every Manitoban, including a sufficient supply of personal protective equipment for staff administering vaccinations, as well as needles and syringes. 

Several of the COVID-19 vaccines have specialized storage and other requirements, meaning it is more efficient to keep supplies and administer the vaccine on a scale basis in a smaller number of locations, especially in the early stages of the vaccination campaign. The first freezer able to store safely one of the COVID-19 vaccines at extremely low temperatures has been delivered and installed, with another four on the way. Together, they can hold about one million doses of vaccine, the premier noted, adding the province has also purchased 20 portable ultra-cold freezers.

As the vaccine supply from the federal government expands over the coming months, it will become more widely available in a larger number of sites, ideally similar to a conventional vaccination campaign, such as the annual flu shot, once logistics make this feasible. Manitoba continues to call on the federal government to develop a co-ordinated strategy for the COVID-19 vaccine.

“Over time, the vaccine will be available to every Manitobans who wants it and this will help to protect all of us against COVID-19. In the meantime, we must continue to follow the public health advice of our public health experts, focus on the fundamentals and stay home,” said Pallister. “Together, we will save lives.”

The premier noted the province will launch a new, dedicated COVID-19 rapid testing service pilot for teachers in Winnipeg in January to coincide with the safe return to school. These efforts are part of a broader expansion of rapid testing throughout the province to help better protect Manitobans, ensure the health and wellness of school communities, and support the province’s overall pandemic response.

More details of this program, as well as plans to expand it outside of Winnipeg, will be announced in the near future.

The premier noted the Manitoba government has placed a new, $40-million order for Songbird Hyris tests, which will help deliver 45,000 tests a month.

The province is also deploying another 20 Abbott ID NOW tests to communities across the province, in addition to the 13 testing units previously announced. They will soon be in use and have been shipped to the following locations:
• Southern Health–Santé Sud – Steinbach (two units), Boundary Trails (two), Portage la Prairie (two) and Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes (one);
• Interlake–Eastern Regional Health Authority – Selkirk (two), Stonewall (one), Pine Falls (one), Gimli (one) and Ashern (one);
• Prairie Mountain Health – Dauphin (two), Neepawa (one), Virden (one), Killarney (one) and Russell (one); and
• Northern Regional Health Authority – Thompson/The Pas (one).

The rapid allocation of the Abbot ID NOW tests will offer health-care providers a valuable early screening tool to identify possible outbreaks as quickly as possible, the premier said.

The Manitoba government is taking strong action to protect Manitobans and ensure timely access to care. For more information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine campaign in Manitoba, visit:
www.manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine.

Manitoba Public Insurance Ice Safety

Manitoba Public Insurance is reminding people to be careful on the ice this time of year and to keep your vehicles off the ice until it’s safe to drive on.

 

Over the last five years in the province it was estimated that 60 vehicles fell through thin and unsafe ice in early December and early spring.

 

The ice should be at least 7 and a half inches thick to support a passenger car, 8 inches to support a light truck, and 10 inches for a medium truck.

 

When it comes to ice fishing, ice skating, or any other activities on the ice you should not walk on ice that is less than 4 inches thick if you are with a group and to avoid ice with cracks or ice near inlets or moving water.

PROVINCE TAKES ACTION TO ENSURE SAFE SCHOOLS

The Manitoba government is furthering its commitment to protecting safe and healthy learning environments by mandating a two-week remote learning period for grade 7 to 12 students and offering the same remote learning period for kindergarten to Grade 6 students, Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced today.

This two-week remote learning period will begin Jan. 4, 2021, following the regularly scheduled holiday break.

“Current data indicates the risk of COVID-19 transmission in our schools remains low and we want to ensure the return to the classroom is as safe as practically possible,” said Goertzen. “By moving our grade 7 to 12 students to remote learning for the first two weeks of the new year and offering remote learning options to kindergarten to Grade 6 students, we are reducing the risk that may be posed as a result of a change in students’ close contacts during the winter break.”

Students in grades 7 to 12 will move to remote learning for a two-week period from Jan. 4 to 15. Optional remote learning will also be available to kindergarten to Grade 6 students during this period should families wish to keep their children at home following the holiday break. Regular, in-person classroom learning will be available during this period for kindergarten to Grade 6 students, as well as for any grade 7 to 12 students with special needs that must be accommodated in the school or classroom setting.

This two-week remote learning period for grades 7 to 12 will keep close to half of the student population in Manitoba at home following the winter break. Evidence suggests that older students have a higher incidence of contracting the virus, a larger number of close contacts and are more likely to transmit the virus to others as a result. Moving this group to remote learning will reduce the risk of transmission in schools while minimizing the impact on kindergarten to Grade 6 students and their families.

Manitoba school divisions have made significant enhancements to the remote learning experience in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and are well equipped for this mandated period of remote learning, the minister said. The Provincial Remote Learning Support Centre will be available to assist school divisions and educational staff during this remote learning period.

In addition to this remote learning period, Goertzen also announced that the Manitoba government is further protecting Manitoba schools by confirming the full allocation of the Safe Schools Fund.

“The pandemic situation is evolving and the Manitoba government recognizes that our schools may face extraordinary funding pressures in the 2020-21 school year,” said Goertzen. “We are pleased to confirm the full allocation of our government’s $100-million investment, along with $85.4 million in federal funding, to keep our schools healthy and safe.”

The $100-million Safe Schools Fund, established in August 2020, included $48 million in school division savings from the 2019-20 school year and additional $52 million in provincial funding. In late August, the federal government also announced COVID-related funding for education. This total pool of $185.4 million will be used to augment staffing, health and safety, learning and technology.

Staffing is a key component of the government’s COVID-19 education measures, Goertzen said. School divisions continue to recruit additional teachers, educational assistants, substitute teachers, custodial staff, bus drivers, clinicians and other critical staff. As of Oct. 31, over $9 million had been invested in additional staffing, with a total investment of over $67 million already projected to be spent by June 2021.

The confirmed allocations to support schools are:
• 2019-20 savings by school divisions – $48 million;
• per pupil allocations for school divisions and independent schools – $76 million including $44 million to specifically address staffing needs;
• Safe Restart Contingency Fund, application-based funding to support emerging needs – $39.4 million;
• Manitoba Remote Learning Support Centre – $10 million; and
• personal protective equipment – $12 million.

School divisions and independent schools will be able to apply for additional funding for needs not covered by their Safe Schools allocation through the Safe Restart Contingency Fund. The contingency fund will cover incremental expenditures to meet health and safety requirements, address extenuating public health conditions in the region/area that may entail unique cost pressures, and support innovative approaches that may support outcomes for a broader school community, region or the province as a whole.

“Our government is committed to protecting our schools and providing the resources needed to keep students learning and staff supported during these difficult times,” said Goertzen. “Manitobans can count on us to support our staff, students and their families as we navigate this unconventional school year together.”

COVID-19 BULLETIN #273

Public health officials advise 14 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a female in her 40s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 60s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 60s from the Winnipeg health region;  
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region.
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home;  
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Golden Links Lodge;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home; 
• a female in her 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region; 
• a female in her 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Rest Haven Nursing Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Rest Haven Nursing Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at the Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home; and
• a female in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region and linked to the outbreak at the  Charleswood Care Centre. 
 
The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.2 per cent provincially and 14.5 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 277 new cases of the virus have been identified bringing the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 17,384.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 15 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 28 cases in the Northern health region;
• 10 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 24 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 200 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 8,970 active cases and 8,072 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 351 people in hospital with 51 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 342.

Laboratory testing numbers show 2,182 tests were completed yesterday, bringing the total number of lab tests completed since early February to 360,039. Case investigations continue and if a public health risk is identified, the public will be notified.

The Pas Friendship Centre Toy Drive

The Pas Friendship Centre is reminding residents from The Pas and area that they are still accepting cash donations for their special holiday toy drive.

 

The cash donations will be used to purchase toys for children and you can make a cash donation using e transfer tpfc.finance@gmail.com using toy drive as the subject and donation as the password.

 

If you wish to make a cash donation call 204-627-7500

 

Gift donations cannot be accepted this year due to covid 19 regulations and cash donations will be accepted until December 11th at 4PM

Operation Red Nose "Take the Reins for Your Safety" Campaign

Operation Red Nose has adapted to the current public health situation and its impacts on logistics by creating an online awareness campaign called ‘Take the Reins for your Safety” which began yesterday.

 

Operation Red Nose wants encourages people to visit

take-the-reins.com and check out their tools that encourage sober driving, these include mock tail recipes and tips on how to prevent friends from driving intoxicated.

 

Operation Red Noses goal is to encourage responsible behavior with regards to impaired driving and has offered safe rides for people in The Pas and Area in the past.

University College of the North Offering the Health Care Aide Assistant Program to Support Pandemic Response

University College of the North (UCN), in partnership with the Northern Health Region (NRHA) and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, will offer a short Health Care Aide Assistant program in several Northern communities starting in January 2021. 

 

UCN, along with Assiniboine Community College and Red River College, will deliver the program throughout Manitoba. Red River College designed the program and shared the curriculum for this important offering.

 

“This offering in partnership with our stakeholders demonstrates that UCN is completely committed to meeting the educational needs of the north, especially in such trying times,” said Dr. Vicki Zeran, Dean of Health at UCN.

 

“This offering demonstrates the value that UCN provides to northern Manitobans,” said UCN’s President and Vice-Chancellor Doug Lauvstad.

 

“These new graduates will provide the essential care needed in our long-term care homes, in a time when COVID is ravaging our most vulnerable.”

“We welcome this training and look forward to employing graduates of the Health Care Aide Assistant Program in the New Year,” said NRHA CEO Helga Bryant.

 

“This partnership with UCN is an excellent example of pivoting to meet a community need with timely, specific training and we and the patients and residents we care for appreciate it.”

 

University College of the North provides learning opportunities to northern communities while respecting diverse Indigenous and northern values.

COVID-19 BULLETIN #272

Public health officials advise 16 additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported today including:
• a male in his 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 70s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a male in his 80s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Fairview Home;
• a male in his 80s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region;
• a female in her 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Fred Douglas Lodge;
• a male in his 80s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Holy Family Personal Care Home;
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Holy Family Personal Care Home;
• a female in her 90s from the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region, linked to the outbreak at Buhler Active Living Centre in Winkler;
• a male in his 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Golden Links Lodge;
• a female in her 100s from the Prairie Mountain Health region, linked to the outbreak at Gilbert Plains Personal Care Home; and
• a female in her 100s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Holy Family Personal Care Home.

The current five-day COVID-19 test positivity rate is 13.1 per cent provincially and 13.8 per cent in Winnipeg. As of 9:30 a.m. today, 283 new cases of the virus have been identified. However, one case was removed due to a data correction making the total 282 and the total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba to 17,107.

Today’s COVID-19 data shows:
• 17 cases in the Interlake–Eastern health region;
• 22 cases in the Northern health region;
• 12 cases in the Prairie Mountain Health region;
• 54 cases in the Southern Health–Santé Sud health region; and
• 178 cases in the Winnipeg health region.

The data also shows:
• 9,066 active cases and 7,713 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19;
• there are 338 people in hospital with 48 people in intensive care due to COVID-19; and
• the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 328.

The chief provincial public health officer urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes. When leaving the house to obtain essentials, be sure to physically distance, wear a mask in indoor public places and avoid crowded spaces. Do not leave the home if you are sick, or when any member of your family is sick. Further, do not socialize with anyone from outside your household.

Public health officials are also advising that anyone who is symptomatic, or has a household member who is symptomatic, the entire household needs to self-isolate pending COVID-19 test results. For health-care workers, exceptions may apply and staff may be able/required to report to work. Contact your workplace Occupational Health Services or designate. For information on self-isolation, including exceptions, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/self-isolation.html.

The online assessment tool can be found at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/screening-tool/ and COVID-19 symptoms can be found at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/fundamentals/symptoms.html.

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.

University College of The North Delaying The Start of their Winter Term

The University College of the North is taking an important measure to avoid a post holiday surge of COVID 19 cases, by delaying the start of their winter term.

 

Their winter term originally set to start on January 4th will now begin on the 18th of January.

 

UCN President Doug Lauvstad says the decision is taken in the interests of everyone that may find themselves at the UCN facility after Christmas and they are taking responsible steps to ensure that UCN is protecting the health and safety of Northerners.

No New Cases of COVID-19 Identified During Third Round of Testing at the Keeyask Site

After the third round of COVID-19 testing which concluded last week, Manitoba Hydro says it has no new confirmed cases to report.

 

Hydro states that between Tuesday and Thursday of last week, 617 tests were administered at the construction site.

 

This follows the additional measures put in place at Keeyask after a positive case was reported in late October.

 

Since then, 39 cases were confirmed following the initial positive test, which have since recovered.

 

Dave Bowen, the director of the Keeyask project, explains that Hydro is happy to see no new cases arise from this latest round of testing, but adds that it’s aware the chance of cases emerging is still a possibility given the current numbers in the province.

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