Here are the latest headlines that you need to know in regards to the novel coronavirus in British Columbia:
Economic package coming from Justin Trudeau
A federal government economic stimulus package is expected to be announced today that will be directed at helping Canadian workers and businesses handle the COVID-19 pandemic. Economists are predicting that the package will be around $25 billion dollars, which is around 1% of the national economy. Trudeau will be making that announcement at 7:30 am PT
Canada-USA border to be shutdown
The Canadian-US border has been shutdown for all non-essential traffic. This includes tourists or anyone trying to hop the border to buy groceries. The announcement of the shutdown was revealed Wednesday from a tweet by President Donald Trump.
We will be, by mutual consent, temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic. Trade will not be affected. Details to follow!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2020
WestJet warns recent fliers of possible exposure
Canadian airline giant WestJet is saying recent passengers may have been exposed to coronavirus, pointing at 14 recent flights that took place between Feb. 28 and Mar. 12. According to WestJet, public health officials are recommending people who sat in certain rows to self-isolate for 14 days after arrival and monitor symptoms.
The safety of our guests and crews is our top priority. @GovCanHealth has advised us of six additional flights with guests who have tested positive for COVID-19. See below the newly impacted flights and view all impacted flights here – https://t.co/IET6VECA9o pic.twitter.com/bIK18Qpm1w
— WestJet (@WestJet) March 18, 2020
Banks offering mortgage payment relief
Canada’s big banks are offering some financial breathing room to customers hurt by the steps taken to slow the spread of COVID-19. The big six banks say they will allow customers to defer mortgage payments for up to six months among other changes. Canadians or business owners facing hardship are being urged to contact their bank directly to discuss options that may be available.
Washington tops 1,000 cases
Yesterday evening, the Washington Department of Health announced that the state has reached a total of 1,012 confirmed cases of COVID-19, jumping 108 cases since Monday. The state also announced seven new deaths.
BC Ferries limiting food
BC Ferries says in supporting social distancing in trying to limit the spread of COVID-19, it is reducing food and retail service to “minimal levels” on ships and in terminals. This limited food service kicks in Wednesday. Grab-and-go food is available, but hot food will not be served.
Canada by the numbers
So far in our country the case total has climbed to 570 confirmed with a total of 8 deaths. 12 of those cases have been revealed to be on Vancouver Island, with Dr. Richard Stanwick of Island Health confirming there are cases in all regions “up and down the Island.”
Graham Cox
