Ontario Premier Doug Ford was joined by Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care, and Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams on Monday to provide an update on the province's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Ford said that the province has “so far” avoided a “worst case scenario” due to collective efforts on the part of Ontario residents to follow physical distancing orders and advice from health experts. He added that new modelling numbers received on Monday "clearly show" that attempts to slow the spread of COVID-19 are working.
Elliott stated the province is showing “early but unmistakable signs” that efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 are working, and that the outbreak has “likely peaked.” She stressed that residents “need to remain vigilant” and continue adhering to physical distancing practices in order for “these projections to become reality.”
Ford also said the province is planning a framework for a “gradual, measured and safe” reopening, which will have “strict criteria” that must be met before easing restrictions. He said the “health and safety of each and every person in this province” will remain the priority when planning reopening strategies.
Ontario reported 606 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday and 31 additional deaths, bringing the provincial total to 11,184 cases. The death toll has risen to 584.
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