WINNIPEG

COVID-19 risk in Winnipeg is low, up to public to keep it that way: health officials

CTV News Winnipeg

Published Friday, March 13, 2020 6:18AM CST

This undated electron microscope image made available by the U.S. National Institutes of Health in February 2020 shows the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, orange, emerging from the surface of cells, green, cultured in the lab. The Alberta government says it is now dealing with a second presumptive case of the novel coronavirus and is ramping up testing protocols. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - NIAID-RML via AP

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WINNIPEG -- According to Canada's health minister between 30 and 70 per cent of Canadians could become infected with COVID-19.

Health officials with the City of Winnipeg say the risk in the city is still low, however, it's up to the public to help keep it that way.

Health officials at all levels of government are working together to, what's called, 'flatten the curve.'

This means keeping infections at a manageable level so health systems don't become overwhelmed by a sudden jump in cases.

"We just need to remind people that the best advice right now is to wash your hands, to stay home if you're sick and basically just keep information and we will keep you updated as much as possible," says Jason Shaw, manager of the Emergency Operations Centre.

The federal government says keeping cases at a manageable level gives them time to gather additional materials needed to treat the illness.