The severity of the second wave of COVID-19 is becoming clearer from Canada’s Chief Public Health officer.
Dr. Theresa Tam is projecting a staggering 60,000 cases a day nationally by December, adding to the current average of 1,800 people in hospitals daily, and over 375 people in intensive care.
“The strain on health systems has resulted in hospitals having to postpone important medical procedures, while critical care beds for COVID-19 patients have reached, or, are at near maximum capacity in some areas,” warns Tam.
The Chief Public Health officer notes many outbreaks are linked to social gatherings of families and friends were restrictions are not adhered to.
She continues to urgently drive home the message of safety practices, as the country could face over 378,000 cases by the end of November, taxing an already overwhelmed health care system. “If that’s happening now, you can imagine these exhausted health care workers are not going to be able to cope.”
Health Minister Patty Hajdu is asking everyone to reconsider whether you need to go out on a daily basis, adding this Christmas season will be difficult.
