Mark Chang / CC
Premier Doug Ford says if there is a large surge of Covid-19 cases at hospitals in the province over the next two weeks, medical supply lines will be “seriously challenged.”
Ford says that on the weekend, he visited a medical supply warehouse in the province and took a hard look at the inventory.
He said massive amounts of new inventory are being secured – medical supplies from around the world and from throughout Canada.
Ford says there are current orders for millions of needed items like face masks, but this has to be coupled with efforts on the part of residents to self-isolate and practice social distancing to buy the extra hours and days to stave off a surge.
Ford reminded people not to gather in groups and to stay at least two metres from each other.
He said by putting your life on hold, you are saving the lives of seniors and the most vulnerable. (Above Audio)
Ford says Covid-19 will be defeated, but it’s going to take effort on the part of everybody.
Also during his address to the province today, the Ontario Premier said the government is committing $243-million towards protecting residents of long term care homes.
He said that money will be used for screening, cleaning and sanitation and increase capacity in order to relieve some pressure on hospitals.
Ford says $70-million will go to retirement homes, residential facilities and emergency shelters for the same measures.
This comes after nine residents at Pinecrest Nursing Home in Bobcaygeon died due to complications from COVID-19.
Premier Ford also said the State of Emergency in Ontario would be extended by two more weeks to April 14. It was originally in effect until tomorrow.