Canadian health officials have made an emotional plea to the country to totally avoid gatherings of more than 50 people.
On the back of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's plea for Canadians to stay at home amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the country's top health officials further emphasized the need for social distancing.
"We are in a difficult situation, this is the defining global health crisis of our time," said Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister.
"These are extraordinary measures, but this is an extraordinary time. Yesterday, Dr. Theresa Tam encouraged all Canadians to avoid gatherings of more than 50 people.
"It's extremely important to stay at home. Postpone, cancel or move your event online. Do what is necessary to flatten the curve (of COVID-19).
"Please find ways to allow staff to work from home. We will flatten the curve by social distancing."
Freeland urged Canadians to look after their neighbours while "keeping a distance."
Tam, Canada's top health official, said the situation in Ontario is causing them most concern at the moment, due to the community spread of the virus, with no connection to travel out of the country.
"This is how serious the nature of the virus is," said Tam on Tuesday morning.
"There was a large dental conference in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»recently, with 15,000 people now being told to self-isolate.
"If Canada is to succeed, we need to be on our best game. We need that Team Canada spirit.
"Curb social gatherings and entertaining. We can delay and dampen the effect (of the virus). We are calling on Canada to pull together and flatten the curve."
Tam added that this is Canada's time. "This is our chance, right here, right now."
The government added that there will be an "enahmced border officer presence" at all Canadian port of entry, where people will be subject to more screening and will have to sign a declaration to self-isolate.
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