Canada has reached 75,004 total documented cases of COVID-19, about 50% of which have recovered, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer said in a statement on Saturday.
"These numbers represent what we know at this moment, and change quickly," Dr. Tam said.
So far, Canada has tested more than 1.26 million people, with about 6% testing positive for the virus, and has increased testing capabilities to an average of 27,000 people per day.
In provinces across the nation, including BC, physical distancing measures and restrictions on businesses have begun to relax. Dr. Tam said she recognizes that Canadians are looking to benefit from these new liberties, but asks to do so responsibly.
"As provinces and territories reopen, it is crucial that all Canadians keep in mind the importance of going out smart," she said.
1/3 #COVID19 is not the same everywhere but EVERYWHERE we need to GO OUT SMART with the essential basics: PhysicalDistancing 2 metres, #WashYourHands often, avoid high touch surfaces/objects, always use #CoughEtiquette.
— Dr. Theresa Tam (@CPHO_Canada) May 16, 2020
"We need to continue to do our part to stamp out the last burning embers of COVID-19, while protecting and supporting one another and ensuring we do not lose any of the progress we have made."
According to Dr. Tam, there have been a total of 5,595 deaths in the country due to COVID-19.
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