CBC News reported that the Canadian government will announce an end to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for domestic travel on planes and trains and outgoing international travel.

Citing unidentified sources familiar with the matter, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the Trudeau administration may bring back the vaccine mandate if a new variant of the virus is discovered.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has faced criticism over ongoing pandemic restrictions, suspended random COVID testing at all its airports for the rest of June to ease long waiting times that travellers have been facing.

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His government had made it compulsory for federal civil servants to get inoculated while unvaccinated people were barred from travelling to keep travellers and employees in the industry safe, according to Transport Minister Omar Alghabra.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-justin-trudeau-tests-positive-for-covid-after-americas-summit-487887">Also read |&nbsp;Canada PM Justin Trudeau tests positive for COVID after Americas summit</a>

In response to delays and long lineups at airports, the Canadian government has been under pressure to relax some public health measures from the opposition parties, as well as industry organisations.

With the emergence of the more infectious Omicron variant, experts have questioned the effectiveness of vaccine mandates touted by Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos as an effective way of getting more Canadians vaccinated.

After testing positive following his trip to the United States for the Summit of the Americas, Trudeau said his lack of severe symptoms was "because I got my shots." 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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CBC News reported that the Canadian government will announce an end to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for domestic travel on planes and trains and outgoing international travel.

CBC News reported that the Canadian government will announce an end to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for domestic travel on planes and trains and outgoing international travel. Citing unidentified sources familiar with the matter, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the Trudeau administration may bring back the vaccine mandate if a new variant of the virus is discovered. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has faced criticism over ongoing pandemic restrictions, suspended random COVID testing at all its airports for the rest of June to ease long waiting times that travellers have been facing. × His government had made it compulsory for federal civil servants to get inoculated while unvaccinated people were barred from travelling to keep travellers and employees in the industry safe, according to Transport Minister Omar Alghabra. Also read | Canada PM Justin Trudeau tests positive for COVID after Americas summit In response to delays and long lineups at airports, the Canadian government has been under pressure to relax some public health measures from the opposition parties, as well as industry organisations. With the emergence of the more infectious Omicron variant, experts have questioned the effectiveness of vaccine mandates touted by Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos as an effective way of getting more Canadians vaccinated. After testing positive following his trip to the United States for the Summit of the Americas, Trudeau said his lack of severe symptoms was "because I got my shots." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Canada COVID-19 vaccine mandate: Report says Trudeau to announce new guidelines

All members attending the new House of Commons session in Canada will have to be fully vaccinated to be able to attend the parliament.<o:p></o:p>

The new parliament session is scheduled to begin on November 22. The Board of Internal Economy, which administers functions of the house, and is chaired by its speaker, has announced that the all "individuals must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to be allowed within the House of Commons precinct".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/viral-infections-could-promote-alzheimers-and-parkinsons-disease-report-422249">Viral infections could promote Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease: Report</a>

This rule will be applicable to every individual entering the premises of the parliament, be it an MP, maintenance worker, researcher, administration employees, press gallery, consultants, business visitors, contractors and more.<o:p></o:p>

Only the people who can show proof of 'medical contradiction' will be allowed to enter the premises without getting fully vaccinated. However, they will have to show a negative Covid result before entering.<o:p></o:p>

"These decisions were made to meet ongoing recommendations from public health authorities to help limit the spread of Covid-19 within the work environment," the statement read

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-cases-witness-stubborn-high-in-uk-daily-cases-above-40000-for-a-week-now-422362">WATCH |</a>

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Along with this, wearing a face mask and maintaining social distance will also be compulsory even if all members are fully vaccinated.<o:p></o:p>

This has come at a time when the government is urging locals to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible to make sure the cases do not increase once again.<o:p></o:p>

Vaccine mandates are about to be enforced at a national level for all public sector employees from the end of this month. The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, reportedly, had a telephonic conversation with the leader of the Bloc Québécois, Yves-François Blanchet about the same.<o:p></o:p>

He "emphasised the need for all members of parliament in the House of Commons to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19".<o:p></o:p>

All members attending the new House of Commons session in Canada will have to be fully vaccinated to be able to attend the parliament. The new parliament session is scheduled to begin on November 22.

All members attending the new House of Commons session in Canada will have to be fully vaccinated to be able to attend the parliament. The new parliament session is scheduled to begin on November 22. The Board of Internal Economy, which administers functions of the house, and is chaired by its speaker, has announced that the all "individuals must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to be allowed within the House of Commons precinct". Also read | Viral infections could promote Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease: Report This rule will be applicable to every individual entering the premises of the parliament, be it an MP, maintenance worker, researcher, administration employees, press gallery, consultants, business visitors, contractors and more. Only the people who can show proof of 'medical contradiction' will be allowed to enter the premises without getting fully vaccinated. However, they will have to show a negative Covid result before entering. "These decisions were made to meet ongoing recommendations from public health authorities to help limit the spread of Covid-19 within the work environment," the statement read WATCH | Along with this, wearing a face mask and maintaining social distance will also be compulsory even if all members are fully vaccinated. This has come at a time when the government is urging locals to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible to make sure the cases do not increase once again. Vaccine mandates are about to be enforced at a national level for all public sector employees from the end of this month. The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, reportedly, had a telephonic conversation with the leader of the Bloc Québécois, Yves-François Blanchet about the same. He "emphasised the need for all members of parliament in the House of Commons to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19".

Canadian MPs told to get fully vaccinated to attend House of Commons

Canada reopened its border with the United States 16 months after all non-essential travel was halted as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-extends-macrons-covid-19-pass-despite-protests-404274">coronavirus </a>&nbsp;pandemic took hold worldwide last year.

The Justin Trudeau&nbsp;government has removed quarantine regulation for US citizens, with only proof of vaccination required.

There were several long queues as people waited for long hours in border checkpoints.&nbsp;

Watch:

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Reports say Canada may allow foreign travellers to enter the country from September if the coronavirus situation remains under control.

Meanwhile, the authorities opened five Canadian airports for international flights, however, quarantine for travellers is still a requirement in the country with international flights allowed to land only in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver.

According to the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, tourism is the fifth-largest industry in the country which has taken a major hit due to the pandemic as cross-border exchanges between the two countries ended due to the border closure.

However, there are still several regulations in place. Americans who have taken both doses are allowed into the country after taking approval at least 14 days before arrival.

The US has fully<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-apartheid-research-suggests-uk-will-hoard-up-to-210-million-vaccines-404298"> vaccinated</a> half of its population with 68 per cent of Canadians having&nbsp;received both doses. Health officials say &nbsp;81 per cent of Canadians have received a single dose.

The US however is still reviewing its border policy for Canadians who want to enjoy their summer in the country with restrictions still in place for inbound travellers.

Canada's latest move comes as the US recorded over 100,000 daily average coronavirus cases due to the Delta variant hitting a six month high amid increased hospitalisations.

(With inputs from Agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Canada reopened its border with the United States 16 months after all non-essential travel was halted as the coronavirus pandemic took hold worldwide last year. The Justin Trudeau government has removed quarantine regulation for US citizens, with only proof of vaccination required.

Canada reopened its border with the United States 16 months after all non-essential travel was halted as the coronavirus pandemic took hold worldwide last year. The Justin Trudeau government has removed quarantine regulation for US citizens, with only proof of vaccination required. There were several long queues as people waited for long hours in border checkpoints. Watch: Reports say Canada may allow foreign travellers to enter the country from September if the coronavirus situation remains under control. Meanwhile, the authorities opened five Canadian airports for international flights, however, quarantine for travellers is still a requirement in the country with international flights allowed to land only in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver. According to the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, tourism is the fifth-largest industry in the country which has taken a major hit due to the pandemic as cross-border exchanges between the two countries ended due to the border closure. However, there are still several regulations in place. Americans who have taken both doses are allowed into the country after taking approval at least 14 days before arrival. The US has fully vaccinated half of its population with 68 per cent of Canadians having received both doses. Health officials say 81 per cent of Canadians have received a single dose. The US however is still reviewing its border policy for Canadians who want to enjoy their summer in the country with restrictions still in place for inbound travellers. Canada's latest move comes as the US recorded over 100,000 daily average coronavirus cases due to the Delta variant hitting a six month high amid increased hospitalisations. (With inputs from Agencies)

International travel update: Canada reopens border for fully vaccinated Americans

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's government on Friday said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-biontech-to-seek-authorization-for-3rd-covid-shot-statement-396898">unvaccinated</a> foreigners won't be allowed in the country for "quite a while" as the country combats the virus.

"We need to continue to ensure that the safety of Canadians of all the sacrifices that so many people have made over the past many, many months, is not for nothing," the Canadian prime minister said.

Watch:

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"I can tell you right now, that's not going to happen for quite a while," Trudeau added.

Canada had shut its border with the United States for non-essential travellers since March last year when the pandemic took hold worldwide. The government however this week allowed citizens and permanent residents who have been vaccinated to not go in for quarantine after returning from abroad.

PM Trudeau added that next steps on allowing travellers in the country will be released in the coming weeks without specifying a timeframe.

Ontario reported 194 fresh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-to-raise-covid-19-restrictions-to-highest-level-in-capital-396854">coronavirus</a> cases as health officials in Quebec said&nbsp;103 new cases were detected on Wednesday.

According to health officials, unvaccinated citizens in Ontario consisted of a majority of the population amid the virus surge even as data showed most&nbsp;Canadians are willing to be vaccinated.

The government has ramped its vaccination drive amid the virus as health officials informed over 41 million doses of coronavirus vaccines have been administered in Canada with over 77 per cent of the population having received at least one dose of the vaccine.

Reports say the government has ensured 78 per cent vaccination for children aged&nbsp;12 years and older.&nbsp;

Health officials said the country is within reach to fully vaccinate over 80 per cent of the adult population but cautioned that the rate is slowing.

Chief public health officer Dr Theresa Tam added that the large scale vaccination needed to continue to stay ahead of the curve to deal with the Lambda and Delta variants as winter approaches and citizens head indoors.

The country's health agency reported a decline in cases but cautioned against the threat posed by varients while calling for "sustained efforts" to avoid a resurgence of the virus.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's government on Friday said unvaccinated foreigners won't be allowed in the country for "quite a while" as the country combats the virus.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's government on Friday said unvaccinated foreigners won't be allowed in the country for "quite a while" as the country combats the virus. "We need to continue to ensure that the safety of Canadians of all the sacrifices that so many people have made over the past many, many months, is not for nothing," the Canadian prime minister said. Watch: "I can tell you right now, that's not going to happen for quite a while," Trudeau added. Canada had shut its border with the United States for non-essential travellers since March last year when the pandemic took hold worldwide. The government however this week allowed citizens and permanent residents who have been vaccinated to not go in for quarantine after returning from abroad. PM Trudeau added that next steps on allowing travellers in the country will be released in the coming weeks without specifying a timeframe. Ontario reported 194 fresh coronavirus cases as health officials in Quebec said 103 new cases were detected on Wednesday. According to health officials, unvaccinated citizens in Ontario consisted of a majority of the population amid the virus surge even as data showed most Canadians are willing to be vaccinated. The government has ramped its vaccination drive amid the virus as health officials informed over 41 million doses of coronavirus vaccines have been administered in Canada with over 77 per cent of the population having received at least one dose of the vaccine. Reports say the government has ensured 78 per cent vaccination for children aged 12 years and older. Health officials said the country is within reach to fully vaccinate over 80 per cent of the adult population but cautioned that the rate is slowing. Chief public health officer Dr Theresa Tam added that the large scale vaccination needed to continue to stay ahead of the curve to deal with the Lambda and Delta variants as winter approaches and citizens head indoors. The country's health agency reported a decline in cases but cautioned against the threat posed by varients while calling for "sustained efforts" to avoid a resurgence of the virus. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Not going to happen for quite a while': Canada won't allow unvaccinated tourists

Police in cities across Ontario, Canada`s most populous province, on Saturday refused to make random stops greenlighted by the provincial government seeking to impose a stay-at-home order amid a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Toronto, the country`s largest city, Ottawa, Hamilton, Windsor and at least 19 other municipal police forces said they would not conduct random vehicle or individual stops though they had been given the power to do so.

"The Toronto Police Service will continue to engage, educate and enforce, but we will not be doing random stops of people or cars," the force said on Twitter. Mayor John Tory supported the move.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-ontario-gives-police-sweeping-powers-to-enforce-stay-at-home-orders-378122">Canada's Ontario gives police sweeping powers to enforce stay-at-home orders</a>

Ontario, home to 38% of Canada`s population, had 4,362 new infections on Saturday after a record of 4,812 cases on Friday, and projections indicate the virus could spike to 10,000 per day in June without more strict health restrictions.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, increasingly under fire for mishandling the province`s pandemic response, on Friday gave police the authority to stop anyone driving or walking to ask them to explain their reason for leaving home and ticket them if in breach of the rules.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-ontario-imposes-1-month-lockdown-amid-fears-of-covid-19-third-wave-375982">Canada: Ontario imposes 1-month lockdown amid fears of COVID-19 third wave</a>

Steven Del Duca, the opposition Liberal Party leader in Ontario, said Ford was imposing "martial law" and that the move was a "dangerous attack on racialized Ontarians" who would be unfairly targeted.

The expanded police powers risk causing "a rash of racial profiling and overbroad police powers, presuming everyone outside guilty until proven otherwise," Canada`s Civil Liberties Association said.

Ford also said he would block non-essential travel from neighbouring provinces from Monday. Ontario`s Provincial Police on Saturday said they were preparing to enforce that order.

In recent weeks, Ontario has closed schools, restaurants, limited in-store shopping, and cancelled elective surgeries as a surge of admissions threatened to overwhelm hospitals. On Friday it also shut down some construction work, but not warehouses or factories.

Critics say Ford abandoned a previous stay-at-home order too soon, allowing current spike in cases that is putting hospitals under pressure. On Friday, Ford blamed the federal government for the third wave, saying it had been too slow to ramp up vaccinations and too lenient at the borders.

Police in cities across Ontario, Canada`s most populous province, on Saturday refused to make random stops greenlighted by the provincial government seeking to impose a stay-at-home order amid a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Police in cities across Ontario, Canada`s most populous province, on Saturday refused to make random stops greenlighted by the provincial government seeking to impose a stay-at-home order amid a surge in COVID-19 cases. Toronto, the country`s largest city, Ottawa, Hamilton, Windsor and at least 19 other municipal police forces said they would not conduct random vehicle or individual stops though they had been given the power to do so. "The Toronto Police Service will continue to engage, educate and enforce, but we will not be doing random stops of people or cars," the force said on Twitter. Mayor John Tory supported the move. Also read | Canada's Ontario gives police sweeping powers to enforce stay-at-home orders Ontario, home to 38% of Canada`s population, had 4,362 new infections on Saturday after a record of 4,812 cases on Friday, and projections indicate the virus could spike to 10,000 per day in June without more strict health restrictions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, increasingly under fire for mishandling the province`s pandemic response, on Friday gave police the authority to stop anyone driving or walking to ask them to explain their reason for leaving home and ticket them if in breach of the rules. Also read | Canada: Ontario imposes 1-month lockdown amid fears of COVID-19 third wave Steven Del Duca, the opposition Liberal Party leader in Ontario, said Ford was imposing "martial law" and that the move was a "dangerous attack on racialized Ontarians" who would be unfairly targeted. The expanded police powers risk causing "a rash of racial profiling and overbroad police powers, presuming everyone outside guilty until proven otherwise," Canada`s Civil Liberties Association said. Ford also said he would block non-essential travel from neighbouring provinces from Monday. Ontario`s Provincial Police on Saturday said they were preparing to enforce that order. In recent weeks, Ontario has closed schools, restaurants, limited in-store shopping, and cancelled elective surgeries as a surge of admissions threatened to overwhelm hospitals. On Friday it also shut down some construction work, but not warehouses or factories. Critics say Ford abandoned a previous stay-at-home order too soon, allowing current spike in cases that is putting hospitals under pressure. On Friday, Ford blamed the federal government for the third wave, saying it had been too slow to ramp up vaccinations and too lenient at the borders.

Canadian police refuse provincial order to make random stops amid COVID-19 surge

Owing to a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday.

Ontario premier Doug Ford&nbsp;urged residents&nbsp;to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-justin-trudeau-warns-of-very-serious-third-wave-of-coronavirus-375837">Canada's Justin Trudeau warns of 'very serious' third wave of coronavirus</a>

“The risks are greater and the stakes are higher,” Ford told people while asking them to focus on following all necessary safety guidelines against coronavirus.

His announcement came almost a week after Ford had to reverse the plans of reopening businesses and a couple of days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned against a very serious third wave in the country.

"Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," Trudeau said. "And right now, so is Canada."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-crosses-1-million-cases-amid-third-wave-of-coronavirus-375216">Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus</a>

Canada has already shut down schools and shifted to online/virtual teaching as the cases kept increasing, especially in the younger generation.

The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave.

"Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities.

Owing to a surge in coronavirus cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday. Ontario premier Doug Ford urged residents to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave.

Owing to a surge in coronavirus cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday. Ontario premier Doug Ford urged residents to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave. Also read | Canada's Justin Trudeau warns of 'very serious' third wave of coronavirus “The risks are greater and the stakes are higher,” Ford told people while asking them to focus on following all necessary safety guidelines against coronavirus. His announcement came almost a week after Ford had to reverse the plans of reopening businesses and a couple of days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned against a very serious third wave in the country. "Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," Trudeau said. "And right now, so is Canada." Also read | Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus Canada has already shut down schools and shifted to online/virtual teaching as the cases kept increasing, especially in the younger generation. The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave. "Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities.

Canada: Ontario imposes 1-month lockdown amid fears of COVID-19 third wave

As the country registered more than one million&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000, Canada’s prime minister has warned against a "very serious" third wave of Covid-19.

"Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," he said. "And right now, so is Canada."

Following the warning of a surge in coronavirus cases, Canada has decided to cancel all in-person classes at elementary and secondary schools from Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-crosses-1-million-cases-amid-third-wave-of-coronavirus-375216">Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus</a>

The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave.

"Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-covid-19-variant-cases-overwhelms-canadian-hospitals-375392">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-covid-19-variant-cases-overwhelms-canadian-hospitals-375392/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Canada has nearly 247,000 students in the school district who will be shifting to virtual classes till April 18, with the possibility of extending the study from home orders.

Canada has averaged nearly 5,200 new coronavirus cases per day over the past week and has recorded a total of more than a million positive tests and 23,000 deaths.

Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has warned people against going out for entertainment purposes. He expressed frustration upon seeing people in Toronto "going into the mall, doing their little wander ‘round, and coming out with no bags. That tells me they were just out for a daily jaunt. You can’t do that."

As the country registered more than one million coronavirus cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000, Canada’s prime minister has warned against a "very serious" third wave of Covid-19.

As the country registered more than one million coronavirus cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000, Canada’s prime minister has warned against a "very serious" third wave of Covid-19. "Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," he said. "And right now, so is Canada." Following the warning of a surge in coronavirus cases, Canada has decided to cancel all in-person classes at elementary and secondary schools from Wednesday. Also read | Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave. "Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities." Watch | Canada has nearly 247,000 students in the school district who will be shifting to virtual classes till April 18, with the possibility of extending the study from home orders. Canada has averaged nearly 5,200 new coronavirus cases per day over the past week and has recorded a total of more than a million positive tests and 23,000 deaths. Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has warned people against going out for entertainment purposes. He expressed frustration upon seeing people in Toronto "going into the mall, doing their little wander ‘round, and coming out with no bags. That tells me they were just out for a daily jaunt. You can’t do that."

Canada's Justin Trudeau warns of 'very serious' third wave of coronavirus

Canada has registered more than one million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000.

As British Colombia registered 2,000 new cases on Saturday, Canada crossed the threshold of one million Covid cases, as per data revealed by the Canadian broadcasters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-set-to-enter-third-lockdown-amid-coronavirus-surge-375143" hreflang="en">France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge</a>

This has come as the country is entering a third of the deadly virus amid a surge of cases due to the rapid spread of the new variants, which are being believed to be more contagious.

The increase in the number of cases has also led to stricter restrictions, especially in the two most populous provinces, Ontario and Quebec.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-reaches-100-million-with-vaccines-as-europe-faces-hiccups-375134" hreflang="en">US reaches 100 million with vaccines as Europe faces hiccups</a>

As the locals celebrated Easter, the authorities tightened the restrictions and health measures, especially in Ontario which has registered more than a third of Canada’s cases in the past month.

The government has announced that non-essential businesses can operate on a 25 per cent capacity, while the rest can accommodate 50 per cent capacity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccinated-people-can-resume-travel-at-low-risk-us-cdc-says-375133" hreflang="en">Vaccinated people can resume travel at 'low risk', US CDC says</a>

However, other services such as sports stadiums, hair salons and more will stay close.

Students have been allowed to go to schools for in-person classes and the government has not asked locals to stay indoors as a compulsion.

Quebec, meanwhile, has extended the nighttime curfew that was initiated in January 2021, amid a surge of cases.

While the cases are on a rise, the Canadian government is urging people to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> as soon as possible, although the country is paying the price for delayed deliveries of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna jabs, especially since certain restrictions were imposed on AstraZeneca doses. Till now, 14.6 per cent of locals have received at least one jab of the coronavirus vaccine.

Canada has registered more than one million coronavirus cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000. As British Colombia registered 2,000 new cases on Saturday, Canada crossed the threshold of one million Covid cases, as per data revealed by the Canadian broadcasters.

Canada has registered more than one million coronavirus cases since the pandemic began last year, with a death tally of nearly 23,000. As British Colombia registered 2,000 new cases on Saturday, Canada crossed the threshold of one million Covid cases, as per data revealed by the Canadian broadcasters. Also read | France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge This has come as the country is entering a third of the deadly virus amid a surge of cases due to the rapid spread of the new variants, which are being believed to be more contagious. The increase in the number of cases has also led to stricter restrictions, especially in the two most populous provinces, Ontario and Quebec. Also read | US reaches 100 million with vaccines as Europe faces hiccups As the locals celebrated Easter, the authorities tightened the restrictions and health measures, especially in Ontario which has registered more than a third of Canada’s cases in the past month. The government has announced that non-essential businesses can operate on a 25 per cent capacity, while the rest can accommodate 50 per cent capacity. Also read | Vaccinated people can resume travel at 'low risk', US CDC says However, other services such as sports stadiums, hair salons and more will stay close. Students have been allowed to go to schools for in-person classes and the government has not asked locals to stay indoors as a compulsion. Quebec, meanwhile, has extended the nighttime curfew that was initiated in January 2021, amid a surge of cases. While the cases are on a rise, the Canadian government is urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, although the country is paying the price for delayed deliveries of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna jabs, especially since certain restrictions were imposed on AstraZeneca doses. Till now, 14.6 per cent of locals have received at least one jab of the coronavirus vaccine.

Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus

As frustration mounts in Canada at the leaden weight of lockdowns and the glacial pace of vaccinations, a consortium of some of the country’s largest companies has launched a rapid testing program with the aim of protecting their 350,000 employees and publishing a playbook for businesses across Canada on how to reopen safely.

The program, believed to be the first of its kind among the Group of 7 industrialized nations, has already attracted the attention of the Biden administration.

The 12 companies, including Canada’s biggest airline and grocery chain, have worked together for four months, creating a 400-page operating manual on how to run rapid antigen tests in various work settings. They began piloting the tests in their workplaces this month and expect to expand the program to 1,200 small and medium-sized businesses.

They also plan to share their test results with government health authorities, greatly raising test counts in the country and providing an informal study of the virus’s spread among asymptomatic people.

“It’s like wartime — people get together to do something that’s in the interest of everybody,” said Marc Mageau, senior vice president of refining and logistics with Suncor Energy, the country’s largest oil producer, which introduced the testing to its employees this month.

The program faces some inherent challenges — after an outbreak last year at the White House, antigen tests became known for generating both false negatives and a false sense of security. They are also in short supply in Canada, with some experts arguing they should be reserved for schools and nursing homes rather than nonessential businesses.

While vaccines are considered the world’s best weapon for defeating the pandemic, most experts believe it will take months, if not a full year, for Canada to reach vaccination levels that allow workplaces to safely return to their pre-COVID operations.

Canada is in the grip of a second pandemic wave that has driven infections to record levels and deaths to about 19,800. In response, many parts of the country are in lockdown, with restaurants, theaters and nonessential retail shops closed.

The Canadian economy has contracted about 5% during the pandemic. Some industries, like real estate and manufacturing, have done well, but employment has plummeted at others, like entertainment and hospitality, which depend on public crowds.

“Think about downtown Toronto: No one is there anymore. Entertainment — it’s all stopped,” said Joshua Gans, a professor of strategic management at the University of Toronto who acted as an adviser on the project and is the author of “The Pandemic Information Gap: The Brutal Economics of COVID-19.”

“The time has come to work out how to actually reopen the sectors that have been closed,” he said.

The companies in the consortium were brought together in the spring by Ajay Agrawal, founder of the University of Toronto’s Creative Destruction Lab, which helps science and technology startups. They were inspired by the most Canadian of muses: author Margaret Atwood.

“How soon can we have a cheap, buy-it-at-the-drugstore, self-administered test?” Atwood asked last May during a virtual meeting of business leaders and others tasked with brainstorming ideas for economic recovery during the pandemic.

The problem, the group posited, was the “information gap” — since there was no way to tell who might be an asymptomatic carrier, everyone was treated as a potential threat.

Atwood envisioned something like a home pregnancy test.

“That would be a game changer,” she said.

Realizing that the government was overwhelmed by the health crisis, the group decided to take on the task itself, forming a consortium led by Creative Destruction Lab.

The group focused on antigen tests because of their speed, price and utility: They can produce results in minutes, don’t require a laboratory and, in Canada, can cost between $5 and about $20.

But they are less accurate, and produce more false negatives, than the gold-standard polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, tests, which can cost 20 times as much. The three antigen tests approved for use in Canada flag between 84% and 96.7% of the people infected with the virus.

In Britain, antigen tests used in a mass testing campaign identified just two-fifths of the coronavirus cases detected by PCR tests.

For that reason, many experts in Canada and elsewhere initially argued it was wiser to expand PCR testing. But, as the pandemic stretched on and the country failed to reach its testing targets, that thinking has changed, said Dr. Irfan Dhalla, co-chair of the Canadian advisory panel on testing and screening for COVID-19, which recommended the country increase the use of rapid tests.

“A rapid antigen test is clearly better than no test at all, as long as it is not used as a free pass,” Dhalla said. “Whether it’s a workplace or a school, you still have to wear a mask and you still have to physically distance as much as you can.”

Consortium members hope in the long run that the testing program will help reduce infection rates enough to permit a return to crowded restaurants and boardroom meetings. But in the meantime, they plan on using the tests as an added layer of protection — on top of wearing masks, engaging in social distancing and pre-screening employees so those with symptoms stay home.

The companies in the consortium are also testing their employees twice a week, increasing the chances of picking up positive cases.

“Everyone is looking for a silver bullet. We’ve realized it doesn’t exist. This isn’t it either,” conceded Laura Rosella, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University o

In September, more than 100 employees from the consortium began working together, at their companies’ expense, to draft a plan. Two retired generals volunteered to help manage logistics.

In November, the group registered as a nonprofit organization called CDL Rapid Screening Consortium, with each company contributing $230,000 for operational costs.

Working in teams, the employees researched some 50 different antigen tests emerging around the world, analyzed what was needed for a screening program — from staffing to the number of gowns — and estimated the overall cost.

The resulting 400-page operating manual includes everything from an example of an employee invitation to join the program and a standard consent form, to the detailed shopping list of materials required to run a program.

One hurdle has been acquiring tests. They have had to get them from the government because they are not widely available in Canada yet, and there is a great demand from schools and nursing homes.

“Let’s get tests there first,” Dhalla said, referring to schools, nursing homes and essential workplaces. “As we gain experience, then we can talk about getting people back to work, where working from home is an option.”

In January, five of the companies began to pilot the program in settings as different as pharmacies and radio stations. So far, some 400 employees have volunteered, and almost 1,900 tests have been conducted. Only three have come back positive, according to Sonia Sennik, executive director of the Creative Destruction Lab and the enthusiastic quarterback of the project.

“They didn’t go into the workplace and potentially spread something,” Sennik said. “We broke the chain of transmission three times.”

The companies have found the program reduces employee anxiety not only about coming to work, but also about returning home each day, she said.

“I feel relief,” said Mohamed Gaballa, an Air Canada employee who completed the test during a break at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Within 15 minutes, this popped up on email: “Your screening result is negative. You may carry on with your day.”

“This has been a missing piece in Canada for far too long,” said Dan Kelly, president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, which represents 110,000 small and medium-sized businesses.

Small businesses face many more hurdles to implement a program like this, even given the leg up from a 400-page manual, he said. There is the cost of the tests, but more important, of the staff to administer them.

Kelly imagined the program wouldn’t work at restaurants and busy stores — places where unscreened customers far outnumber screened employees, unless the plan was to test them too. But, in kitchens, small warehouses, small manufacturing shops and offices, “this testing could be quite helpful,” he said.

“Under normal circumstances, the idea of small companies doing employee-based testing for anything would be a fantasy,” said Kelly, who sits on the federal government’s industry advisory group on COVID-19 testing. “But in this case, given the degree of desperation to get or stay open among small-business owners, there is a potential appetite for it.”

As frustration mounts in Canada at the leaden weight of lockdowns and the glacial pace of vaccinations, a consortium of some of the country’s largest companies has launched a rapid testing program with the aim of protecting their 350,000 employees and publishing a playbook for businesses across Canada on how to reopen safely.

As frustration mounts in Canada at the leaden weight of lockdowns and the glacial pace of vaccinations, a consortium of some of the country’s largest companies has launched a rapid testing program with the aim of protecting their 350,000 employees and publishing a playbook for businesses across Canada on how to reopen safely. The program, believed to be the first of its kind among the Group of 7 industrialized nations, has already attracted the attention of the Biden administration. The 12 companies, including Canada’s biggest airline and grocery chain, have worked together for four months, creating a 400-page operating manual on how to run rapid antigen tests in various work settings. They began piloting the tests in their workplaces this month and expect to expand the program to 1,200 small and medium-sized businesses. They also plan to share their test results with government health authorities, greatly raising test counts in the country and providing an informal study of the virus’s spread among asymptomatic people. “It’s like wartime — people get together to do something that’s in the interest of everybody,” said Marc Mageau, senior vice president of refining and logistics with Suncor Energy, the country’s largest oil producer, which introduced the testing to its employees this month. The program faces some inherent challenges — after an outbreak last year at the White House, antigen tests became known for generating both false negatives and a false sense of security. They are also in short supply in Canada, with some experts arguing they should be reserved for schools and nursing homes rather than nonessential businesses. While vaccines are considered the world’s best weapon for defeating the pandemic, most experts believe it will take months, if not a full year, for Canada to reach vaccination levels that allow workplaces to safely return to their pre-COVID operations. Canada is in the grip of a second pandemic wave that has driven infections to record levels and deaths to about 19,800. In response, many parts of the country are in lockdown, with restaurants, theaters and nonessential retail shops closed. The Canadian economy has contracted about 5% during the pandemic. Some industries, like real estate and manufacturing, have done well, but employment has plummeted at others, like entertainment and hospitality, which depend on public crowds. “Think about downtown Toronto: No one is there anymore. Entertainment — it’s all stopped,” said Joshua Gans, a professor of strategic management at the University of Toronto who acted as an adviser on the project and is the author of “The Pandemic Information Gap: The Brutal Economics of COVID-19.” “The time has come to work out how to actually reopen the sectors that have been closed,” he said. The companies in the consortium were brought together in the spring by Ajay Agrawal, founder of the University of Toronto’s Creative Destruction Lab, which helps science and technology startups. They were inspired by the most Canadian of muses: author Margaret Atwood. “How soon can we have a cheap, buy-it-at-the-drugstore, self-administered test?” Atwood asked last May during a virtual meeting of business leaders and others tasked with brainstorming ideas for economic recovery during the pandemic. The problem, the group posited, was the “information gap” — since there was no way to tell who might be an asymptomatic carrier, everyone was treated as a potential threat. Atwood envisioned something like a home pregnancy test. “That would be a game changer,” she said. Realizing that the government was overwhelmed by the health crisis, the group decided to take on the task itself, forming a consortium led by Creative Destruction Lab. The group focused on antigen tests because of their speed, price and utility: They can produce results in minutes, don’t require a laboratory and, in Canada, can cost between $5 and about $20. But they are less accurate, and produce more false negatives, than the gold-standard polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, tests, which can cost 20 times as much. The three antigen tests approved for use in Canada flag between 84% and 96.7% of the people infected with the virus. In Britain, antigen tests used in a mass testing campaign identified just two-fifths of the coronavirus cases detected by PCR tests. For that reason, many experts in Canada and elsewhere initially argued it was wiser to expand PCR testing. But, as the pandemic stretched on and the country failed to reach its testing targets, that thinking has changed, said Dr. Irfan Dhalla, co-chair of the Canadian advisory panel on testing and screening for COVID-19, which recommended the country increase the use of rapid tests. “A rapid antigen test is clearly better than no test at all, as long as it is not used as a free pass,” Dhalla said. “Whether it’s a workplace or a school, you still have to wear a mask and you still have to physically distance as much as you can.” Consortium members hope in the long run that the testing program will help reduce infection rates enough to permit a return to crowded restaurants and boardroom meetings. But in the meantime, they plan on using the tests as an added layer of protection — on top of wearing masks, engaging in social distancing and pre-screening employees so those with symptoms stay home. The companies in the consortium are also testing their employees twice a week, increasing the chances of picking up positive cases. “Everyone is looking for a silver bullet. We’ve realized it doesn’t exist. This isn’t it either,” conceded Laura Rosella, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University o In September, more than 100 employees from the consortium began working together, at their companies’ expense, to draft a plan. Two retired generals volunteered to help manage logistics. In November, the group registered as a nonprofit organization called CDL Rapid Screening Consortium, with each company contributing $230,000 for operational costs. Working in teams, the employees researched some 50 different antigen tests emerging around the world, analyzed what was needed for a screening program — from staffing to the number of gowns — and estimated the overall cost. The resulting 400-page operating manual includes everything from an example of an employee invitation to join the program and a standard consent form, to the detailed shopping list of materials required to run a program. One hurdle has been acquiring tests. They have had to get them from the government because they are not widely available in Canada yet, and there is a great demand from schools and nursing homes. “Let’s get tests there first,” Dhalla said, referring to schools, nursing homes and essential workplaces. “As we gain experience, then we can talk about getting people back to work, where working from home is an option.” In January, five of the companies began to pilot the program in settings as different as pharmacies and radio stations. So far, some 400 employees have volunteered, and almost 1,900 tests have been conducted. Only three have come back positive, according to Sonia Sennik, executive director of the Creative Destruction Lab and the enthusiastic quarterback of the project. “They didn’t go into the workplace and potentially spread something,” Sennik said. “We broke the chain of transmission three times.” The companies have found the program reduces employee anxiety not only about coming to work, but also about returning home each day, she said. “I feel relief,” said Mohamed Gaballa, an Air Canada employee who completed the test during a break at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Within 15 minutes, this popped up on email: “Your screening result is negative. You may carry on with your day.” “This has been a missing piece in Canada for far too long,” said Dan Kelly, president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, which represents 110,000 small and medium-sized businesses. Small businesses face many more hurdles to implement a program like this, even given the leg up from a 400-page manual, he said. There is the cost of the tests, but more important, of the staff to administer them. Kelly imagined the program wouldn’t work at restaurants and busy stores — places where unscreened customers far outnumber screened employees, unless the plan was to test them too. But, in kitchens, small warehouses, small manufacturing shops and offices, “this testing could be quite helpful,” he said. “Under normal circumstances, the idea of small companies doing employee-based testing for anything would be a fantasy,” said Kelly, who sits on the federal government’s industry advisory group on COVID-19 testing. “But in this case, given the degree of desperation to get or stay open among small-business owners, there is a potential appetite for it.”

‘Like wartime’: Canadian companies unite to start mass virus testing

Medical companies and shippers in Canada are racing to transport time-sensitive radiochemical materials used to treat cancer, as a pandemic-induced drop in passenger flights has narrowed transportation options and created cargo delays. 
 
Half of air cargo normally travels in the belly of passenger jets rather than dedicated freighters. But flight cancellations as traffic plummeted during the pandemic have left some companies scrambling to ship treatments that decay over time, pushing up overall transportation costs. 
 
Before the pandemic, the McMaster Nuclear Reactor in the Canadian province of Ontario could ship its iodine-125 isotope anywhere in a couple of days. 
 
But since spring, deliveries of the isotope, used to treat about 70,000 patients a year with a procedure called brachytherapy, have been delayed as long as 10 days. 
 
"There`s fewer flights, so it`s creating longer routes,” said Karin Stephenson, manager of commercial operations at the reactor. "It`s been really challenging trying to get our product around." 
 
It is a problem in Canada, where a limited domestic market and restrictions on international travel, like a 14-day quarantine for arrivals, have hit air passenger traffic harder than in some other countries like the United States. Travel volumes are down 90% at Canadian airports on an annual basis, according to the government. 
 
U.S. cancer specialists and the American College of Radiology said they had not heard of any widespread concerns over shipping isotopes. 
 
For the broader industry, moving medical isotopes is a challenge because they decay over time. In 10 days, iodine-125 loses about 20% of its radioactivity, said Stephenson. 
 
Another product shipped by McMaster, holmium-166, the key raw material in a liver cancer therapy used in Europe called QuiremSpheres, has a half life of only 27 hours. 
 
"Timing is extremely critical," said Jan Sigger, chief executive of Netherlands-based Quirem Medical, recently acquired by Japan`s Terumo Corp.&nbsp; 
 
Quirem supply chain manager Jerfaas Haalboom said some patients` treatments were rescheduled because of delayed shipments. 
 
 
FEWER OPTIONS 
 
Airlines are also moving to smaller planes with less cargo capacity which can lead to some goods being bumped. 
 
"Shipments get bumped all the time because of aircraft capacity," said Mike Stopay, director of Pacer Air Freight, a Toronto-area cargo specialist. 
 
The recent pickup in transport of COVID-19 vaccines, equivalent to about 0.3% of global air freight, is not likely to displace time-sensitive medical products in cargo planes, said Marco Bloemen, managing director of Seabury Consulting, a division of Accenture Plc. 
 
Falling plane values, and a rise in e-commerce due to the pandemic, are also fueling a boom in converting passenger planes to freighters. Freighters have greater capacity but fly less frequently, creating a potential headache for some shippers of time-sensitive cargo. 
 
Roy Bekic, logistic manager at the Centre for Probe Development and Commercialization in Ontario, said he depends on passenger flights to ship products to Australia via a connection in Vancouver. Delays have led him to lose a handful of shipments. 
 
"For some of my Australian clients I have only about 90 hours before (the treatment) expires," Bekic said. 
 
The challenges are leading to higher transport costs, either to compensate for products lost due to delays, or because companies have fewer options to ship the materials. 
 
Stephenson said McMaster, which has to transport more material to account for longer travel times, recently raised its shipping charges, after absorbing extra costs for months. 
 
Gabriel Freitas, an executive at Vancouver-based isoSolutions, which specializes in sourcing and distributing products in nuclear medicine, said the company has faced increases in shipping prices ranging from around 20% to 30%. 
 
Before COVID-19, Freitas could secure lower prices by searching competing flights. 
 
"Now you go with whatever option you get."

Medical companies and shippers in Canada are racing to transport time-sensitive radiochemical materials used to treat cancer, as a pandemic-induced drop in passenger flights has narrowed transportation options and created cargo delays.

Medical companies and shippers in Canada are racing to transport time-sensitive radiochemical materials used to treat cancer, as a pandemic-induced drop in passenger flights has narrowed transportation options and created cargo delays. Half of air cargo normally travels in the belly of passenger jets rather than dedicated freighters. But flight cancellations as traffic plummeted during the pandemic have left some companies scrambling to ship treatments that decay over time, pushing up overall transportation costs. Before the pandemic, the McMaster Nuclear Reactor in the Canadian province of Ontario could ship its iodine-125 isotope anywhere in a couple of days. But since spring, deliveries of the isotope, used to treat about 70,000 patients a year with a procedure called brachytherapy, have been delayed as long as 10 days. "There`s fewer flights, so it`s creating longer routes,” said Karin Stephenson, manager of commercial operations at the reactor. "It`s been really challenging trying to get our product around." It is a problem in Canada, where a limited domestic market and restrictions on international travel, like a 14-day quarantine for arrivals, have hit air passenger traffic harder than in some other countries like the United States. Travel volumes are down 90% at Canadian airports on an annual basis, according to the government. U.S. cancer specialists and the American College of Radiology said they had not heard of any widespread concerns over shipping isotopes. For the broader industry, moving medical isotopes is a challenge because they decay over time. In 10 days, iodine-125 loses about 20% of its radioactivity, said Stephenson. Another product shipped by McMaster, holmium-166, the key raw material in a liver cancer therapy used in Europe called QuiremSpheres, has a half life of only 27 hours. "Timing is extremely critical," said Jan Sigger, chief executive of Netherlands-based Quirem Medical, recently acquired by Japan`s Terumo Corp. Quirem supply chain manager Jerfaas Haalboom said some patients` treatments were rescheduled because of delayed shipments. FEWER OPTIONS Airlines are also moving to smaller planes with less cargo capacity which can lead to some goods being bumped. "Shipments get bumped all the time because of aircraft capacity," said Mike Stopay, director of Pacer Air Freight, a Toronto-area cargo specialist. The recent pickup in transport of COVID-19 vaccines, equivalent to about 0.3% of global air freight, is not likely to displace time-sensitive medical products in cargo planes, said Marco Bloemen, managing director of Seabury Consulting, a division of Accenture Plc. Falling plane values, and a rise in e-commerce due to the pandemic, are also fueling a boom in converting passenger planes to freighters. Freighters have greater capacity but fly less frequently, creating a potential headache for some shippers of time-sensitive cargo. Roy Bekic, logistic manager at the Centre for Probe Development and Commercialization in Ontario, said he depends on passenger flights to ship products to Australia via a connection in Vancouver. Delays have led him to lose a handful of shipments. "For some of my Australian clients I have only about 90 hours before (the treatment) expires," Bekic said. The challenges are leading to higher transport costs, either to compensate for products lost due to delays, or because companies have fewer options to ship the materials. Stephenson said McMaster, which has to transport more material to account for longer travel times, recently raised its shipping charges, after absorbing extra costs for months. Gabriel Freitas, an executive at Vancouver-based isoSolutions, which specializes in sourcing and distributing products in nuclear medicine, said the company has faced increases in shipping prices ranging from around 20% to 30%. Before COVID-19, Freitas could secure lower prices by searching competing flights. "Now you go with whatever option you get."

In Canada, shippers race to move cancer treatments as COVID-19 grounds flights

Health officials in Canada's Ontario have said that two confirmed cases of the new coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom have appeared in the province.

Scientists say the variant is about 40%-70% more transmissible than the original strain. Several other countries, including Australia, Italy and the Netherlands say they detected cases of the new strain.

The Canadian cases, identified in a couple in southern Ontario with no known travel history, exposure or high-risk contact, came as the province went into a lockdown on Saturday.

Ontario reported 4,301 new cases over the past two days on Saturday, with the province seeing more than 2,000 cases per day for 12 consecutive days.

Last week, Canada extended to January 6 a ban on passenger flights arriving from Britain and expanded enhanced screening and monitoring measures to travellers arriving from South Africa, citing the rise of the more infectious variant.

Scientists say there is no evidence that vaccines currently being deployed - including one made by Pfizer and BioNtech - or other COVID-19 shots in development will not protect against this variant.

Canada began rolling out the Pfizer vaccine earlier this month and started distributing Moderna Inc's COVID-19 vaccine across the country last Thursday.

Canada has so far reported 541,616 cases of COVID-19, including 14,800 deaths.

Health officials in Canada's Ontario have said that two confirmed cases of the new coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom have appeared in the province.

Health officials in Canada's Ontario have said that two confirmed cases of the new coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom have appeared in the province. Scientists say the variant is about 40%-70% more transmissible than the original strain. Several other countries, including Australia, Italy and the Netherlands say they detected cases of the new strain. The Canadian cases, identified in a couple in southern Ontario with no known travel history, exposure or high-risk contact, came as the province went into a lockdown on Saturday. Ontario reported 4,301 new cases over the past two days on Saturday, with the province seeing more than 2,000 cases per day for 12 consecutive days. Last week, Canada extended to January 6 a ban on passenger flights arriving from Britain and expanded enhanced screening and monitoring measures to travellers arriving from South Africa, citing the rise of the more infectious variant. Scientists say there is no evidence that vaccines currently being deployed - including one made by Pfizer and BioNtech - or other COVID-19 shots in development will not protect against this variant. Canada began rolling out the Pfizer vaccine earlier this month and started distributing Moderna Inc's COVID-19 vaccine across the country last Thursday. Canada has so far reported 541,616 cases of COVID-19, including 14,800 deaths.

Canada confirms two cases of coronavirus variant first seen in UK

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year.

"The fact that the doctors highlighted that if all goes according to plan, we should be able to have a majority of Canadians vaccinated by next September… puts us in very good stead," he was quoted by local media.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-salty-canadian-officials-ask-residents-not-to-let-moose-lick-their-cars-344833">Too salty: Canadian officials ask residents not to let moose lick their cars</a>

"Vaccines are on the horizon. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.," he added.

However,&nbsp;Canada's deputy chief public health officer Dr Howard Njoo cautioned the public that their Prime Minister was choosing to see the glass half full. Explaining the situation, he said, "With the approval, perhaps, of these two vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, perhaps we’re looking at delivery of some six million doses in January and February."

He added that while the Prime Minister is declaring the vaccine availability in the month of September, it can be stretched till December too, depending on the situation. "If the prime minister set September out there as an objective, that’s fine because we’re continuing to work hard to be able to offer vaccination to the majority of Canadians. So if it’s September or December, for me, it’s just a matter of months."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frankfurt-airport-prepares-to-transport-covid-19-vaccine-346008" hreflang="en">Frankfurt Airport prepares to transport COVID-19 vaccine</a>

Trudeau also informed people that his government has already purchased freezers to store the vaccines which will help in transporting the vaccine to the disconnected areas from the main cities, and also in the areas where the&nbsp;native populations reside.

The announcement came as Canada recorded a total of&nbsp;358,741 coronavirus cases, taking the death toll to&nbsp;11,894 till date.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year. "The fact that the doctors highlighted that if all goes according to plan, we should be able to have a majority of Canadians vaccinated by next September… puts us in very good stead," he was quoted by local media. Also read| Too salty: Canadian officials ask residents not to let moose lick their cars "Vaccines are on the horizon. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.," he added. However, Canada's deputy chief public health officer Dr Howard Njoo cautioned the public that their Prime Minister was choosing to see the glass half full. Explaining the situation, he said, "With the approval, perhaps, of these two vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, perhaps we’re looking at delivery of some six million doses in January and February." He added that while the Prime Minister is declaring the vaccine availability in the month of September, it can be stretched till December too, depending on the situation. "If the prime minister set September out there as an objective, that’s fine because we’re continuing to work hard to be able to offer vaccination to the majority of Canadians. So if it’s September or December, for me, it’s just a matter of months." Also read| Frankfurt Airport prepares to transport COVID-19 vaccine Trudeau also informed people that his government has already purchased freezers to store the vaccines which will help in transporting the vaccine to the disconnected areas from the main cities, and also in the areas where the native populations reside. The announcement came as Canada recorded a total of 358,741 coronavirus cases, taking the death toll to 11,894 till date.

'Light at the end of the tunnel': Justin Trudeau promises COVID-19 vaccine by September

Toronto is set to be put on lockdown from Monday amid a spurt in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-vaccine-news-injects-trillions-in-stock-markets-worldwide-344414">coronavirus</a> cases, Ontario premier Doug Ford announced today.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-a-vaccine-is-not-a-silver-bullet-344432/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The city which is the largest in Canada will be put under a 28-day lockdown with strict restrictions which include a ban on indoor private gatherings. The government has also restricted gatherings to ten people with gyms, saloons and casinos to remain closed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-hopes-for-normal-christmas-as-coronavirus-cases-surge-in-europe-344401">Also Read:&nbsp;Britain hopes for 'normal Christmas' as coronavirus cases surge in Europe</a>

"We cannot afford a province-wide lockdown, so we are taking preventative action today by moving Toronto and Peel into lockdown level restrictions ... We need to take decisive action to stop the spread of this deadly virus," Doug Ford said.

The measures during the lockdown include pharmacies and groceries to run at 50 per cent capacity, however, schools will remain open. According to the lockdown rules, restaurants and bars will not be allowed to serve customers.&nbsp;

Ford, however, urged people to buy locally in order to support businesses which is likely to be hit hard heading into Christmas and a normally busy holiday season.&nbsp;

The lockdown measures come as Toronto crossed 100,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-jr-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-spokesman-344439">COVID-19</a> infections as PM Justin Trudeau warned citizens not to "see friends this weekend" and avoid birthday party or dinner gatherings. "A normal Christmas is quite frankly right out of the question," PM Trudeau had said earlier.

"Cases across the country are spiking massively, we're really at risk of seeing caseloads go up and hospitals get overwhelmed," the Canadian prime minister asserted&nbsp;

Canada has registered 317,000 coronavirus cases along with 11,273 fatalities even as infections figures have been rising in the past seven days with 4,800 daily cases and 65 deaths.

Amid the rise in cases, PM Trudeau warned that daily cases could rise to 60,000 by the end of December.

Toronto is set to be put on lockdown from Monday amid a spurt in coronavirus cases, Ontario premier Doug Ford announced today. Watch: The city which is the largest in Canada will be put under a 28-day lockdown with strict restrictions which include a ban on indoor private gatherings.

Toronto is set to be put on lockdown from Monday amid a spurt in coronavirus cases, Ontario premier Doug Ford announced today. Watch: The city which is the largest in Canada will be put under a 28-day lockdown with strict restrictions which include a ban on indoor private gatherings. The government has also restricted gatherings to ten people with gyms, saloons and casinos to remain closed. Also Read: Britain hopes for 'normal Christmas' as coronavirus cases surge in Europe "We cannot afford a province-wide lockdown, so we are taking preventative action today by moving Toronto and Peel into lockdown level restrictions ... We need to take decisive action to stop the spread of this deadly virus," Doug Ford said. The measures during the lockdown include pharmacies and groceries to run at 50 per cent capacity, however, schools will remain open. According to the lockdown rules, restaurants and bars will not be allowed to serve customers. Ford, however, urged people to buy locally in order to support businesses which is likely to be hit hard heading into Christmas and a normally busy holiday season. The lockdown measures come as Toronto crossed 100,000 COVID-19 infections as PM Justin Trudeau warned citizens not to "see friends this weekend" and avoid birthday party or dinner gatherings. "A normal Christmas is quite frankly right out of the question," PM Trudeau had said earlier. "Cases across the country are spiking massively, we're really at risk of seeing caseloads go up and hospitals get overwhelmed," the Canadian prime minister asserted Canada has registered 317,000 coronavirus cases along with 11,273 fatalities even as infections figures have been rising in the past seven days with 4,800 daily cases and 65 deaths. Amid the rise in cases, PM Trudeau warned that daily cases could rise to 60,000 by the end of December.

Canada's largest city Toronto to be on COVID-19 lockdown starting Monday

Canada has decided to re-open its borders for international students and&nbsp;couples who had been separated due to the ongoing pandemic.

On Friday, the immigration minister announced that after months of ban, Canada will allow international students as well as non-citizens who are in exclusive dating relationship with a Canadian citizen.

"We recognize that travel restrictions should not keep loved ones apart," Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino told reporters.&nbsp;

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"In these challenging times, we know those challenges are best met with the strength and support of those we love by our side," he said.

However, the students will have to show proof of being registered in a Canadian college/university, and only the universities that have&nbsp;an approved COVID-19 readiness plan in place will be allowed to admit students. The couples, too, will have to prove the authenticity of their&nbsp;relationship to the Canadian government.

The announcement after the ban on non-essential international crossings across the border were extended for another month.&nbsp;

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This decision was hugely appreciated by the locals who rejoined on being able to meet their loved ones once again. Recently, pictures on social media showed couples having dates along the Canadian border. The couples, however, were questioned by the local authorities.

As per the new regulations,&nbsp;foreign nationals who suffer from&nbsp;a life-threatening illness, critical injury or death will also be allowed to enter.

Travellers will be asked to apply and gain authorisation before arriving in the country. They will also be asked to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days.

The decision has been taken considering the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country. Considering the same, the closure of the US-Canada border might continue for the remaining year.

Canada has decided to re-open its borders for international students and couples who had been separated due to the ongoing pandemic. On Friday, the immigration minister announced that after months of ban, Canada will allow international students as well as non-citizens who are in exclusive dating relationship with a Canadian citizen.

Canada has decided to re-open its borders for international students and couples who had been separated due to the ongoing pandemic. On Friday, the immigration minister announced that after months of ban, Canada will allow international students as well as non-citizens who are in exclusive dating relationship with a Canadian citizen. "We recognize that travel restrictions should not keep loved ones apart," Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino told reporters. Also read: Canada reintroduces bill to ban LGBT conversion therapy "In these challenging times, we know those challenges are best met with the strength and support of those we love by our side," he said. However, the students will have to show proof of being registered in a Canadian college/university, and only the universities that have an approved COVID-19 readiness plan in place will be allowed to admit students. The couples, too, will have to prove the authenticity of their relationship to the Canadian government. The announcement after the ban on non-essential international crossings across the border were extended for another month. Also read: Canada to investigate use of its tech in Armenia-Azerbaijan clash This decision was hugely appreciated by the locals who rejoined on being able to meet their loved ones once again. Recently, pictures on social media showed couples having dates along the Canadian border. The couples, however, were questioned by the local authorities. As per the new regulations, foreign nationals who suffer from a life-threatening illness, critical injury or death will also be allowed to enter. Travellers will be asked to apply and gain authorisation before arriving in the country. They will also be asked to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days. The decision has been taken considering the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country. Considering the same, the closure of the US-Canada border might continue for the remaining year.

Canada to reopen borders for students and couples

The popular cab service Uber has decided to take employment safety a notch higher. Since the pandemic began, uber has been making sure that all drivers wear face mask, avoid any close contact and follow all other safety and health precautions to keep the passengers safe and comfortable.

However, Uber is now worried about its partner drivers. It has come to Uber's notice that a lot of passengers have not been wearing face masks. So, Uber has now decided to roll out a new verification system for passengers.

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Specific passengers, when requesting the next ride,&nbsp;will be asked to compulsorily send a selfie wearing masks. These passengers will be the ones who have been previously reported by the partner drivers for not wearing face masks.

Since May, the Uber drivers have been sending masked selfies before picking up their passenger. Before starting to drive passengers or deliver food, they are asked to take a selfie showing their mouth and nose are covered. Now, the same technology will be extended to the passengers too. "If a driver reports to us that a rider wasn’t wearing a mask, the rider will be required to take a selfie with their face covered before they’re able to take another trip with Uber. With the addition of this new feature, one driver’s feedback can help ensure the safety of Uber for the next driver," the company said in a statement on its blog.

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The feature will be first launched in the&nbsp;US and Canada by the end of September, and across Latin America and other countries later.

In addition to this, Uber is also urging the passengers to follow "Wash, wear, air" policy to ensure that the passengers and the drivers stay safe from the virus. As per the "Wash, wear, air" policy, the riders are urged to wash and/or sanitise their hands properly before boarding the car, wear face masks during the journey and&nbsp;sit in the back seat and roll down the window for airflow.

The popular cab service Uber has decided to take employment safety a notch higher. Since the pandemic began, uber has been making sure that all drivers wear face mask, avoid any close contact and follow all other safety and health precautions to keep the passengers safe and comfortable.

The popular cab service Uber has decided to take employment safety a notch higher. Since the pandemic began, uber has been making sure that all drivers wear face mask, avoid any close contact and follow all other safety and health precautions to keep the passengers safe and comfortable. However, Uber is now worried about its partner drivers. It has come to Uber's notice that a lot of passengers have not been wearing face masks. So, Uber has now decided to roll out a new verification system for passengers. Also watch| California: Uber to continue food delivery services despite rides business forced shut Specific passengers, when requesting the next ride, will be asked to compulsorily send a selfie wearing masks. These passengers will be the ones who have been previously reported by the partner drivers for not wearing face masks. Since May, the Uber drivers have been sending masked selfies before picking up their passenger. Before starting to drive passengers or deliver food, they are asked to take a selfie showing their mouth and nose are covered. Now, the same technology will be extended to the passengers too. "If a driver reports to us that a rider wasn’t wearing a mask, the rider will be required to take a selfie with their face covered before they’re able to take another trip with Uber. With the addition of this new feature, one driver’s feedback can help ensure the safety of Uber for the next driver," the company said in a statement on its blog. Also read| US charges former Uber security chief with covering up massive 2016 hacking The feature will be first launched in the US and Canada by the end of September, and across Latin America and other countries later. In addition to this, Uber is also urging the passengers to follow "Wash, wear, air" policy to ensure that the passengers and the drivers stay safe from the virus. As per the "Wash, wear, air" policy, the riders are urged to wash and/or sanitise their hands properly before boarding the car, wear face masks during the journey and sit in the back seat and roll down the window for airflow.

'It's a two-way street': Uber asks passengers to send masked selfie before booking rides

Canada will invest C$30 million ($21.8 million) to enable its provinces and territories to promote holidays in their "own back yard" because of the closure of the country's borders due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-virus-cases-top-6-million-as-division-deepens-in-dealing-with-pandemic-302094" hreflang="en">Worldwide virus cases top 6 million as division deepens in dealing with pandemic</a>

Destination Canada, the country's national marketing body which usually focuses on luring international visitors, is due to announce the new funding later on Sunday, according to a statement seen by Reuters before its official release.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-vulnerable-in-england-can-spend-time-outdoors-from-monday-302100" hreflang="en">Most vulnerable in England can spend time outdoors from Monday</a>

Canada, which has had more than 7,000 deaths due to COVID-19, has closed its borders to non-essential travel since March, and it is unclear when they will be opened again. Many provinces have also shut down domestic non-essential travel.

Quebec, which shares borders with the U.S. states of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, accounts for more than 60% of the Canadian death toll from the virus, and Ontario, the most populous province, has also been hit hard.

The closures have hammered the tourism industry. Some 42% of businesses in the accommodation and food sectors have reported revenue drops of more than 50%, according to an April survey https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/200429/dq200429a-eng.htm of 12,600 businesses.

At the end of 2018, one out of every 11 jobs in Canada was directly tied to travel, according to the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, but in April the unemployment rate in the tourism sector skyrocketed to more than 28%.

Tourism is "a significant economic driver and source of local jobs. It's also among one of the hardest hit sectors as a result of this pandemic," Economic Development Minister Melanie Joly, who is responsible for tourism, said in the statement.

The aim is to provide a valuable lifeline to the struggling sector during its peak summer season, Ben Cowan-Dewar, chairman of Destination Canada, said in the statement.

It is the first time Destination Canada has provided funding for domestic marketing, according to a spokesman in Joly's office. The marketing arm in each of the 10 provinces and three territories will decide exactly how they want to use the money, the spokesman said.

Canada will invest C$30 million ($21.8 million) to enable its provinces and territories to promote holidays in their "own back yard" because of the closure of the country's borders due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Canada will invest C$30 million ($21.8 million) to enable its provinces and territories to promote holidays in their "own back yard" because of the closure of the country's borders due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Worldwide virus cases top 6 million as division deepens in dealing with pandemic Destination Canada, the country's national marketing body which usually focuses on luring international visitors, is due to announce the new funding later on Sunday, according to a statement seen by Reuters before its official release. Also read: Most vulnerable in England can spend time outdoors from Monday Canada, which has had more than 7,000 deaths due to COVID-19, has closed its borders to non-essential travel since March, and it is unclear when they will be opened again. Many provinces have also shut down domestic non-essential travel. Quebec, which shares borders with the U.S. states of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, accounts for more than 60% of the Canadian death toll from the virus, and Ontario, the most populous province, has also been hit hard. The closures have hammered the tourism industry. Some 42% of businesses in the accommodation and food sectors have reported revenue drops of more than 50%, according to an April survey https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/200429/dq200429a-eng.htm of 12,600 businesses. At the end of 2018, one out of every 11 jobs in Canada was directly tied to travel, according to the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, but in April the unemployment rate in the tourism sector skyrocketed to more than 28%. Tourism is "a significant economic driver and source of local jobs. It's also among one of the hardest hit sectors as a result of this pandemic," Economic Development Minister Melanie Joly, who is responsible for tourism, said in the statement. The aim is to provide a valuable lifeline to the struggling sector during its peak summer season, Ben Cowan-Dewar, chairman of Destination Canada, said in the statement. It is the first time Destination Canada has provided funding for domestic marketing, according to a spokesman in Joly's office. The marketing arm in each of the 10 provinces and three territories will decide exactly how they want to use the money, the spokesman said.

Canada to promote holidays at home because of COVID-19 border closures

A sad incident took place in Canada on Sunday, as a plane from Canada's Snowbirds, an elite air force aerobatics team, crashed in British Columbia during a performance to salute the COVID-19 warriors.

The performance was to thank the frontline workers and public for the efforts against the coronavirus, the military said.

According to local media, the plane crashed into the front yard of a house shortly after taking off from Kamloops Airport on Sunday morning along with one other plane.

Provincial Health Minister Adrian Dix stated that one person has been admitted to the hospital.

"The #RCAF has been made aware that a Canadian Forces Snowbirds aircraft crashed in the vicinity of Kamloops, BC. "Our priority at this time is determining the status of our personnel and supporting emergency personnel," the Royal Canadian Air Force tweeted, without giving further details.

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Witnesses said the pilot managed to eject from the plane with a parachute before the crash. Local media reportes state that he landed on the roof of a house, and has suffered back and neck injuries.

A part of the house was on fire, and the pictures emerging from locals showed debris infront of the house.&nbsp;"It was complete chaos. People were yelling and screaming. We thought we were getting bombed or something. That's how hectic it was," a local man, next to whose house the plane crashed, was quoted by local media news network.

The two planes were scheduled to fly over British Columbia as part of a tour dubbed "Operation Inspiration," launched earlier this month to pay tribute to Canadians' efforts to battle the coronavirus pandemic.

The Snowbirds' signature nine-jet formation, with trailing white smoke, began its tour in Nova Scotia and was to perform aerial displays over cities from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, at elevations as low as 500 feet (150 meters).

(With inputs from AFP)

A sad incident took place in Canada on Sunday, as a plane from Canada's Snowbirds, an elite air force aerobatics team, crashed in British Columbia during a performance to salute the COVID-19 warriors.

A sad incident took place in Canada on Sunday, as a plane from Canada's Snowbirds, an elite air force aerobatics team, crashed in British Columbia during a performance to salute the COVID-19 warriors. The performance was to thank the frontline workers and public for the efforts against the coronavirus, the military said. According to local media, the plane crashed into the front yard of a house shortly after taking off from Kamloops Airport on Sunday morning along with one other plane. Provincial Health Minister Adrian Dix stated that one person has been admitted to the hospital. "The #RCAF has been made aware that a Canadian Forces Snowbirds aircraft crashed in the vicinity of Kamloops, BC. "Our priority at this time is determining the status of our personnel and supporting emergency personnel," the Royal Canadian Air Force tweeted, without giving further details. Also read: Canada strikes deal with China to make coronavirus vaccine Witnesses said the pilot managed to eject from the plane with a parachute before the crash. Local media reportes state that he landed on the roof of a house, and has suffered back and neck injuries. A part of the house was on fire, and the pictures emerging from locals showed debris infront of the house. "It was complete chaos. People were yelling and screaming. We thought we were getting bombed or something. That's how hectic it was," a local man, next to whose house the plane crashed, was quoted by local media news network. The two planes were scheduled to fly over British Columbia as part of a tour dubbed "Operation Inspiration," launched earlier this month to pay tribute to Canadians' efforts to battle the coronavirus pandemic. The Snowbirds' signature nine-jet formation, with trailing white smoke, began its tour in Nova Scotia and was to perform aerial displays over cities from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, at elevations as low as 500 feet (150 meters). (With inputs from AFP)

Canadian Air Force plane crashes paying tribute to COVID-19 warriors

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll. Despite the rapid increase in number of infections, Americans have not been in favour of lockdown.&nbsp;

Canada, on the other hand, has had a strict lockdown in place but has not been able to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Keeping this in mind, both countries are now deciding to extend the travel ban till June 21.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-zoo-is-sending-two-pandas-back-to-china-because-it-cant-get-enough-bamboo-to-feed-them-298500">Also read:&nbsp;Canada zoo is sending two pandas back to China because it can't get enough bamboo to feed them</a>

"It's too early to lift the restrictions, so we're working toward an extension," said one Canadian government source to a media house.

Earlier, on April 18, Canada and the US had agreed to extend border restrictions until May 21. Considering the rise in number of cases, Canada is now hoping to extend the travel ban&nbsp;for another month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-starts-canadahomeworkhelp-asks-kids-to-reach-out-to-him-298079">Also read:&nbsp;Justin Trudeau starts #CanadaHomeworkHelp; asks kids to reach out to him</a>

The restriction will be in place only for non-essential travel plans. All trade travels will be allowed across the border as US takes 75% of all Canadian good exports.&nbsp;

The chief Canadian public health officer, on Tuesday, talked to the media about US being a risk for Canadians, if the travel ban is lifted.

The same travel ban will be proposed for US-Mexico border too.&nbsp;

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll.

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll. Despite the rapid increase in number of infections, Americans have not been in favour of lockdown. Canada, on the other hand, has had a strict lockdown in place but has not been able to contain the spread of coronavirus. Keeping this in mind, both countries are now deciding to extend the travel ban till June 21. Also read: Canada zoo is sending two pandas back to China because it can't get enough bamboo to feed them "It's too early to lift the restrictions, so we're working toward an extension," said one Canadian government source to a media house. Earlier, on April 18, Canada and the US had agreed to extend border restrictions until May 21. Considering the rise in number of cases, Canada is now hoping to extend the travel ban for another month. Also read: Justin Trudeau starts #CanadaHomeworkHelp; asks kids to reach out to him The restriction will be in place only for non-essential travel plans. All trade travels will be allowed across the border as US takes 75% of all Canadian good exports. The chief Canadian public health officer, on Tuesday, talked to the media about US being a risk for Canadians, if the travel ban is lifted. The same travel ban will be proposed for US-Mexico border too.

Canada-US to extend travel ban till June 21

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is a former teacher has decided to help&nbsp;the students amidst the nationwide&nbsp;lockdown.

Canada has been on a partial lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Trudeau feels bad for the kids who have been locked in their homes due to the virus, and have had to continue their studies from home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-still-in-the-emergency-phase-justin-trudeau-297706">Also read:&nbsp;We are still in the emergency phase: Justin Trudeau</a>

Sympathising with them, he has asked students and parents to reach out to him if they are facing problems with any kind of school work.

"Hey parents! If your kids are stuck on a homework question, feel free to pass this message along. Because as a teacher, I want to help out. Let me know what the difficult question is by replying to this tweet or using the hashtag #CanadaHomeworkHelp - and I'll see what I can do," he tweeted on Sunday. The tweet also had a video message along.

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Hey parents! If your kids are stuck on a homework question, feel free to pass this message along. Because as a teacher, I want to help out. Let me know what the difficult question is by replying to this tweet or using the hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanadaHomeworkHelp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanadaHomeworkHelp</a> - and I’ll see what I can do. <a href="https://t.co/MivkOaE8KM">pic.twitter.com/MivkOaE8KM</a>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1259570858865184768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also announced support for nurses and businesses during this pandemic, in two different video messages through his official Twitter account.

The Twitter messages came few days after Canadian Prime Minister told people to exercise caution as he believes that the country is still in emergency phase.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is a former teacher has decided to help the students amidst the nationwide lockdown. Canada has been on a partial lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is a former teacher has decided to help the students amidst the nationwide lockdown. Canada has been on a partial lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. Trudeau feels bad for the kids who have been locked in their homes due to the virus, and have had to continue their studies from home. Also read: We are still in the emergency phase: Justin Trudeau Sympathising with them, he has asked students and parents to reach out to him if they are facing problems with any kind of school work. "Hey parents! If your kids are stuck on a homework question, feel free to pass this message along. Because as a teacher, I want to help out. Let me know what the difficult question is by replying to this tweet or using the hashtag #CanadaHomeworkHelp - and I'll see what I can do," he tweeted on Sunday. The tweet also had a video message along. Hey parents! If your kids are stuck on a homework question, feel free to pass this message along. Because as a teacher, I want to help out. Let me know what the difficult question is by replying to this tweet or using the hashtag #CanadaHomeworkHelp - and I’ll see what I can do. pic.twitter.com/MivkOaE8KM — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) May 10, 2020 × He also announced support for nurses and businesses during this pandemic, in two different video messages through his official Twitter account. The Twitter messages came few days after Canadian Prime Minister told people to exercise caution as he believes that the country is still in emergency phase.

Justin Trudeau starts #CanadaHomeworkHelp; asks kids to reach out to him

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Saturday that if provinces move too quickly to reopen their economies, a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic could send Canada "back into confinement this summer."

Trudeau, who represents a Montreal, Quebec parliamentary riding, told reporters in a daily briefing that he is concerned about the virus` spread in that province, the country`s epicenter. He said any reopening should be gradual.

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Although health officials have pointed to a flattening rate of daily cases in many provinces, Trudeau said Canada was "not in the recovery phase yet."

"We are still in the emergency phase ... The vast majority of Canadians will continue to need to be very careful."

Canada`s death toll rose 3.5% to 4,628 from a day earlier, while cases approached 67,000. Nearly 60% of Canada`s deaths have occurred in Quebec, where there are numerous outbreaks in nursing homes.

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Quebec has unveiled plans to restart its economy gradually, but on Thursday pushed back for the second time the date when businesses can reopen in Montreal.

Canada`s high proportion of elderly deaths is a "national tragedy," caused in part by housing up to four per room in nursing homes, said Canada`s Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Howard Njoo.

Some of Canada`s biggest individual outbreaks are in Cargill Inc and JBS SA beef plants in Alberta, forcing the companies to reduce production.

The situation has resulted in a glut of cattle but tight beef supplies.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he had urged the U.S. Justice Department to look into allegations that the meatpacking industry broke antitrust law because the price slaughterhouses pay farmers for animals had dropped even as meat prices rose.

Canada will also take a "very close look" to ensure companies are not unduly profiting, Trudeau said.

"We need to make sure no one is profiting in an exaggerated way from this crisis," Trudeau said. "We will take a very careful look to ensure that ... no one is focusing on profit before supporting Canadians."

Trudeau did not give specifics. The independent Competition Bureau reviews such concerns in Canada. 
Coronavirus infections are also multiplying in remote, indigenous communities, raising unique challenges for health officials.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Saturday that if provinces move too quickly to reopen their economies, a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic could send Canada "back into confinement this summer.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Saturday that if provinces move too quickly to reopen their economies, a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic could send Canada "back into confinement this summer." Trudeau, who represents a Montreal, Quebec parliamentary riding, told reporters in a daily briefing that he is concerned about the virus` spread in that province, the country`s epicenter. He said any reopening should be gradual. Also read: Three New York children die from rare inflammatory illness linked to COVID-19 Although health officials have pointed to a flattening rate of daily cases in many provinces, Trudeau said Canada was "not in the recovery phase yet." "We are still in the emergency phase ... The vast majority of Canadians will continue to need to be very careful." Canada`s death toll rose 3.5% to 4,628 from a day earlier, while cases approached 67,000. Nearly 60% of Canada`s deaths have occurred in Quebec, where there are numerous outbreaks in nursing homes. Also read: Outbreaks in Germany, S Korea show life after lockdown isn't what people think Quebec has unveiled plans to restart its economy gradually, but on Thursday pushed back for the second time the date when businesses can reopen in Montreal. Canada`s high proportion of elderly deaths is a "national tragedy," caused in part by housing up to four per room in nursing homes, said Canada`s Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Howard Njoo. Some of Canada`s biggest individual outbreaks are in Cargill Inc and JBS SA beef plants in Alberta, forcing the companies to reduce production. The situation has resulted in a glut of cattle but tight beef supplies. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he had urged the U.S. Justice Department to look into allegations that the meatpacking industry broke antitrust law because the price slaughterhouses pay farmers for animals had dropped even as meat prices rose. Canada will also take a "very close look" to ensure companies are not unduly profiting, Trudeau said. "We need to make sure no one is profiting in an exaggerated way from this crisis," Trudeau said. "We will take a very careful look to ensure that ... no one is focusing on profit before supporting Canadians." Trudeau did not give specifics. The independent Competition Bureau reviews such concerns in Canada. Coronavirus infections are also multiplying in remote, indigenous communities, raising unique challenges for health officials.

We are still in the emergency phase: Justin Trudeau

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday that the army would be sent in to help Ontario and Quebec provinces combat coronavirus outbreaks.

The&nbsp;long-term care facilities in the provinces have been hit the hardest by the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-dogs-detect-covid-19-canines-in-training-to-sniff-out-virus-294360" hreflang="en">Can dogs detect COVID-19? Canines in training to sniff out virus</a>

Seventy to 80 percent of all COVID-19 deaths in the two provinces were at long-term care homes, with the number of fatalities at the homes surpassing 1,000 in Quebec and 500 in Ontario.

Trudeau said, "There have been requests for military assistance by both Ontario and Quebec which, of course, we will be answering."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unimaginable-human-tragedy-in-europes-care-homes-who-on-covid-19-epidemic-294361" hreflang="en">Unimaginable human tragedy in Europe's care homes: WHO on COVID-19 epidemic</a>

"Our women and men in uniform will step up with the valour and courage they've always shown," he added.

Ontario has asked for an unspecified number of soldiers to be deployed at five of its most affected care homes.&nbsp;

Quebec asked for 1,000 troops in addition to 130 military doctors and medics previously requested, to help overwhelmed staff at elderly care homes.

Trudeau said the Canadian military "will be there with support so that provinces can get control of the situation."

Quebec had tried to recruit 2,000 new staff for its long-term care facilities in recent weeks to ease the workload for existing staff, but few applied.

Even with a salary top-up from the government, the jobs are relatively low-paying.

Quebec Premier Francois Legault lamented on Thursday that 9,500 healthcare and senior care workers in the province had not shown up for work this week; 4,000 are under quarantine or are being treated for the virus, while 5,500 feared exposure.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday that the army would be sent in to help Ontario and Quebec provinces combat coronavirus outbreaks. The long-term care facilities in the provinces have been hit the hardest by the pandemic.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday that the army would be sent in to help Ontario and Quebec provinces combat coronavirus outbreaks. The long-term care facilities in the provinces have been hit the hardest by the pandemic. Also read: Can dogs detect COVID-19? Canines in training to sniff out virus Seventy to 80 percent of all COVID-19 deaths in the two provinces were at long-term care homes, with the number of fatalities at the homes surpassing 1,000 in Quebec and 500 in Ontario. Trudeau said, "There have been requests for military assistance by both Ontario and Quebec which, of course, we will be answering." Also read: Unimaginable human tragedy in Europe's care homes: WHO on COVID-19 epidemic "Our women and men in uniform will step up with the valour and courage they've always shown," he added. Ontario has asked for an unspecified number of soldiers to be deployed at five of its most affected care homes. Quebec asked for 1,000 troops in addition to 130 military doctors and medics previously requested, to help overwhelmed staff at elderly care homes. Trudeau said the Canadian military "will be there with support so that provinces can get control of the situation." Quebec had tried to recruit 2,000 new staff for its long-term care facilities in recent weeks to ease the workload for existing staff, but few applied. Even with a salary top-up from the government, the jobs are relatively low-paying. Quebec Premier Francois Legault lamented on Thursday that 9,500 healthcare and senior care workers in the province had not shown up for work this week; 4,000 are under quarantine or are being treated for the virus, while 5,500 feared exposure.

Trudeau sends army to fight pandemic in Ontario, Quebec

Air Canada plans to temporarily lay off more than 5,000 flight attendants due to the new coronavirus pandemic, their union said Friday.

The layoffs would affect 3,600 flight attendants at the flagship Canadian airline and all 1,549 flight attendants at its budget Air Canada Rouge affiliate, the union that represents the flight attendants said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-just-young-people-coronavirus-affects-people-of-all-ages-study-287506">Not just young people, coronavirus affects people of all ages: Study</a>

That accounts for more than half the membership of the Air Canada component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents roughly 10,000 flight attendants.

"This has been the most challenging time any of us will likely ever experience as flight attendants," union president Wesley Lesosky said in a statement.

Air Canada confirmed it has begun discussions with its unions on temporary layoffs, but did not say how many of its employees would be affected.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-carriers-in-us-cancel-flights-amid-coronavirus-crisis-286750">Air carriers in US cancel flights amid coronavirus crisis</a>

In a statement, it attributed the decision to lay off employees to the "rapid evolution" of the new coronavirus pandemic and the reduction in service it has caused.

"When conditions permit and service resumes, these employees will be recalled," the airline said.

On Wednesday, the airline said it planned to gradually reduce its domestic and US transborder flights by March 31, after Canada temporarily closed its border with the United States to contain the spread of the virus.

Its international service has been reduced from 101 destinations to just six, while its cross-border operations have been cut to just 13 destinations from 53.

Air Canada continues to serve domestic destinations but has reduced to 40 airports from 62.

Also in the Canadian aviation sector, Longview Aviation Capital, the parent company that produces the Dash 8-400 and Series 400 Twin Otter, announced it was suspending production activities on the aircraft, affecting 980 employees.

Air Canada plans to temporarily lay off more than 5,000 flight attendants due to the new coronavirus pandemic, their union said Friday. The layoffs would affect 3,600 flight attendants at the flagship Canadian airline and all 1,549 flight attendants at its budget Air Canada Rouge affiliate, the union that represents the flight attendants said.

Air Canada plans to temporarily lay off more than 5,000 flight attendants due to the new coronavirus pandemic, their union said Friday. The layoffs would affect 3,600 flight attendants at the flagship Canadian airline and all 1,549 flight attendants at its budget Air Canada Rouge affiliate, the union that represents the flight attendants said. Also read: Not just young people, coronavirus affects people of all ages: Study That accounts for more than half the membership of the Air Canada component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents roughly 10,000 flight attendants. "This has been the most challenging time any of us will likely ever experience as flight attendants," union president Wesley Lesosky said in a statement. Air Canada confirmed it has begun discussions with its unions on temporary layoffs, but did not say how many of its employees would be affected. Also read: Air carriers in US cancel flights amid coronavirus crisis In a statement, it attributed the decision to lay off employees to the "rapid evolution" of the new coronavirus pandemic and the reduction in service it has caused. "When conditions permit and service resumes, these employees will be recalled," the airline said. On Wednesday, the airline said it planned to gradually reduce its domestic and US transborder flights by March 31, after Canada temporarily closed its border with the United States to contain the spread of the virus. Its international service has been reduced from 101 destinations to just six, while its cross-border operations have been cut to just 13 destinations from 53. Air Canada continues to serve domestic destinations but has reduced to 40 airports from 62. Also in the Canadian aviation sector, Longview Aviation Capital, the parent company that produces the Dash 8-400 and Series 400 Twin Otter, announced it was suspending production activities on the aircraft, affecting 980 employees.

Air Canada to lay off more than 5,000 flight attendants

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has tested positive for coronavirus, a spokesman for the prime minister said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-capitol-closed-to-public-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-285967">Also Read:&nbsp;US Capitol closed to public after staffer tests positive for coronavirus</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-pandemic-these-are-no-go-zones-in-europe-285941">In Pics: Coronavirus pandemic - These are 'no go' zones in Europe</a>

The prime minister is in good health with no symptoms, the spokesman said a statement on Twitter.

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Update on Sophie &amp; the Prime Minister. <a href="https://t.co/EkJL5rWGUN">pic.twitter.com/EkJL5rWGUN</a>
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Justin Trudeau's wife will be in isolation for the moment, while the prime minister will be in self-isolation for 14 days, according to the statement.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-can-live-in-infected-people-for-weeks-longer-than-first-thought-286046">Also read: Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought</a>

Although the Canadian leader has exhibited no symptoms of the disease, "he will be in isolation for a planned period of 14 days," but will not be "tested at this stage", Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying on Thursday night.

There was also no risk to those who have been in contact with the Prime Minister "recently", the office added.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has tested positive for coronavirus, a spokesman for the prime minister said. Also Read: US Capitol closed to public after staffer tests positive for coronavirus In Pics: Coronavirus pandemic - These are 'no go' zones in Europe The prime minister is in good health with no symptoms, the spokesman said a statement on Twitter.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has tested positive for coronavirus, a spokesman for the prime minister said. Also Read: US Capitol closed to public after staffer tests positive for coronavirus In Pics: Coronavirus pandemic - These are 'no go' zones in Europe The prime minister is in good health with no symptoms, the spokesman said a statement on Twitter. Update on Sophie & the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/EkJL5rWGUN — Cameron Ahmad (@CameronAhmad) March 13, 2020 × Justin Trudeau's wife will be in isolation for the moment, while the prime minister will be in self-isolation for 14 days, according to the statement. Also read: Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought Although the Canadian leader has exhibited no symptoms of the disease, "he will be in isolation for a planned period of 14 days," but will not be "tested at this stage", Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying on Thursday night. There was also no risk to those who have been in contact with the Prime Minister "recently", the office added.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau to be in quarantine after wife tests COVID-19 positive

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today that he would be "self-isolating and self-monitoring" himself after his wife Sophie who was experiencing "mild flu-like symptoms"&nbsp;also "self-isolated"&nbsp;herself following orders by the doctor.

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I have some personal news to share today. Sophie recently returned from a speaking event in the UK, and last night she was experiencing mild flu-like symptoms. She‘s feeling better, but following the advice of our doctor she is self-isolating as we wait on COVID-19 test results.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1238149727616667653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-capitol-closed-to-public-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-285967">Also Read:&nbsp;US Capitol closed to public after staffer tests positive for coronavirus</a>

Sophie Trudeau's samples have been sent for testing, the Canadian prime minister informed.

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Out of an abundance of caution, I too will be self-isolating &amp; self-monitoring until we get Sophie‘s results back. But I‘ll be busy working from home. Today, I‘ll be speaking with some world leaders and joining ministers for a Cabinet committee discussion on COVID-19.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1238149729319628800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Out of an abundance of caution, I too will be self-isolating &amp; self-monitoring until we get Sophie‘s results back," Trudeau declared on Twitter, adding, "but I‘ll be busy working from home."

"She‘s feeling better, but following the advice of our doctor she is self-isolating as we wait on COVID-19 test results," the Canadian PM said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-pandemic-these-are-no-go-zones-in-europe-285941">In Pics: Coronavirus pandemic - These are 'no go' zones in Europe</a>

Sophie Trudeau had recently returned from a speaking tour in the UK.

Canada has&nbsp;over hundred confirmed cases of the coronavirus which doubled in a week with six of country's ten provinces recording cases of COVID-19 even as the government announced $723 million package on Wednesday to bolster the healthcare system and limit the impact of the virus.

Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller said Trudeau's move is "a precautionary measure, and should Canadians find themselves in a similar situation, that is the recommendation."

On Thursday, Canada's Juno music awards cancelled its upcoming gala show, planned for Sunday evening in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

"We are devastated to cancel this national celebration of music, but at this time of global uncertainty, the health, safety and well-being of all Canadians must stand at the forefront of any decisions that impact our communities," organizers said in a statement.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today that he would be "self-isolating and self-monitoring" himself after his wife Sophie who was experiencing "mild flu-like symptoms" also "self-isolated" herself following orders by the doctor.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today that he would be "self-isolating and self-monitoring" himself after his wife Sophie who was experiencing "mild flu-like symptoms" also "self-isolated" herself following orders by the doctor. I have some personal news to share today. Sophie recently returned from a speaking event in the UK, and last night she was experiencing mild flu-like symptoms. She‘s feeling better, but following the advice of our doctor she is self-isolating as we wait on COVID-19 test results. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 12, 2020 × Also Read: US Capitol closed to public after staffer tests positive for coronavirus Sophie Trudeau's samples have been sent for testing, the Canadian prime minister informed. Out of an abundance of caution, I too will be self-isolating & self-monitoring until we get Sophie‘s results back. But I‘ll be busy working from home. Today, I‘ll be speaking with some world leaders and joining ministers for a Cabinet committee discussion on COVID-19. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 12, 2020 × "Out of an abundance of caution, I too will be self-isolating & self-monitoring until we get Sophie‘s results back," Trudeau declared on Twitter, adding, "but I‘ll be busy working from home." "She‘s feeling better, but following the advice of our doctor she is self-isolating as we wait on COVID-19 test results," the Canadian PM said. In Pics: Coronavirus pandemic - These are 'no go' zones in Europe Sophie Trudeau had recently returned from a speaking tour in the UK. Canada has over hundred confirmed cases of the coronavirus which doubled in a week with six of country's ten provinces recording cases of COVID-19 even as the government announced $723 million package on Wednesday to bolster the healthcare system and limit the impact of the virus. Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller said Trudeau's move is "a precautionary measure, and should Canadians find themselves in a similar situation, that is the recommendation." On Thursday, Canada's Juno music awards cancelled its upcoming gala show, planned for Sunday evening in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. "We are devastated to cancel this national celebration of music, but at this time of global uncertainty, the health, safety and well-being of all Canadians must stand at the forefront of any decisions that impact our communities," organizers said in a statement.

Canada PM Trudeau to 'work from home' as wife's samples being tested for coronavirus

The coronavirus is spreading fast and has generated an atmosphere of fear. Authorities in several nations across the world are working towards controlling this outbreak. The total number of cases outside mainland China is currently 60. Germany has now confirmed its very first case of the virus, Canada has confirmed the second case and US has confirmed the first case. Watch report:

Coronavirus cases confirmed in 4 continents

The food supply in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wuhan-virus-compounds-hong-kongs-economic-woes-275935">Wuhan </a>is being adversely affected due to the outbreak of the fatal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/discovery-of-a-cure-for-coronavirus-claimed-by-siddha-doctor-from-tamil-nadu-276986">coronavirus</a>, an Indian student stuck in China city which is under lockdown and also epidemic of the disease, told WION on Tuesday.

People are forced to procure&nbsp;and consume&nbsp;processed food items which are easy to prepare to avoid visiting crowded places, Samya Ray also said.

They are also eating dry foods and chocolates to fill their stomach, Ray added.

Talking about the ongoing situation in Wuhan, Ray said, there is a situation of uncertainty among people because of the rumours spreading in the city.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">Coronavirus outbreak: China reports 2,744 confirmed cases, 80 deaths</a>

Wuhan, where the virus apparently jumped to a human in an illegal wildlife market, has been all but put under quarantine, with a lockdown on transport and bans on gatherings.

Watch: Indian students stuck in Wuhan in conversation with WION

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Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-japan-vow-to-fly-out-citizens-from-chinas-wuhan-as-coronavirus-spreads-276874">China</a> surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said.

India is preparing to evacuate citizens from Hubei province following the coronavirus outbreak which has already killed over 100 people in China, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-india-begins-evacuation-process-for-indian-nationals-from-hubei-277119">Coronavirus outbreak: India begins evacuation process for Indian nationals from Hubei</a>

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar also said that authorities were working out the logistics of moving people out of the city which is under lockdown.

Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global epidemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tracking-chinas-sars-like-coronavirus-275537">Australia</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-3-cases-in-france-1-in-australia-us-expecting-more-cases-276474">France</a>, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-virus-us-confirms-first-case-of-coronavirus-death-toll-reaches-nine-275853">United States</a>, and seven Asian countries besides China.

The food supply in Wuhan is being adversely affected due to the outbreak of the fatal coronavirus, an Indian student stuck in China city which is under lockdown and also epidemic of the disease, told WION on Tuesday.

The food supply in Wuhan is being adversely affected due to the outbreak of the fatal coronavirus, an Indian student stuck in China city which is under lockdown and also epidemic of the disease, told WION on Tuesday. People are forced to procure and consume processed food items which are easy to prepare to avoid visiting crowded places, Samya Ray also said. They are also eating dry foods and chocolates to fill their stomach, Ray added. Talking about the ongoing situation in Wuhan, Ray said, there is a situation of uncertainty among people because of the rumours spreading in the city. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: China reports 2,744 confirmed cases, 80 deaths Wuhan, where the virus apparently jumped to a human in an illegal wildlife market, has been all but put under quarantine, with a lockdown on transport and bans on gatherings. Watch: Indian students stuck in Wuhan in conversation with WION Video Embed Code: × Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in China surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said. India is preparing to evacuate citizens from Hubei province following the coronavirus outbreak which has already killed over 100 people in China, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: India begins evacuation process for Indian nationals from Hubei MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar also said that authorities were working out the logistics of moving people out of the city which is under lockdown. Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global epidemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in Australia, France, the United States, and seven Asian countries besides China.

Food supply adversely affected due to coronavirus: Indian student stuck in Wuhan tells WION

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