Ottawa: Canada yesterday released it forecasts on the progression of Covid-19 pandemic, estimating that by the middle of this month, the country could see up to 31,850 cases.
The forecast issued by the Public Health Agency concluded that:
Canada is at an earlier stage of the Covid-19 pandemic than some other countries
• We have an opportunity now to control the epidemic and prepare the health system
• Other countries have shown that this can be done
• We know what needs to be done: keep up physical distancing, increase testing, self-isolate
cases, and rapidly trace contacts
• This is the best way for Canada to get out of the epidemic in the shortest time possible with the
fewest number of deaths
Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, said: “It is important to be aware of the limitations and benefits of modelling. Models are not crystal balls and we cannot predict the future with them. However, they do help us to plan and they tell us that our collective actions can have a direct and significant impact on the epidemic trajectory.
She pointed out that while some of the numbers released yesterday may seem stark, Canada’s modelling demonstrates that the country still has an opportunity to control the epidemic and to save lives. “We cannot prevent every death, but we must prevent all the deaths we can,” she said.
“We all play a role in what the future will hold for Canada’s Covid-19 trajectory. We must continue to control the epidemic using tried and true public health measures, including staying home when possible, maintaining physical distancing, meticulous handwashing, and covering our coughs. What we do together now to stop the spread of Covid-19 will reduce the impact of the pandemic and determine how soon we can readjust our public health measures in Canada,” she added.
For further information
COVID-19 in Canada: Using data and modelling to inform public health action
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