Following Tuesday’s Black Lives Matter rally in front of the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina, Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab is warning the public that large public gatherings – like rallies and protests – can increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

In a release sent out on Wednesday afternoon, the provincial government shared their concerns on the matter saying it is “critically important” to know that as many as 40 per cent of people who are potentially infectious with the virus may show no or very mild symptoms.

“People attending large public rallies are putting themselves and others at increased risk of infection. Not knowing who they may have been in contact with will make contact tracing and public health follow up difficult. As a result, individuals may not have timely warning of potential exposure by public health,” read the release.

“This in turn will put members of extended household contacts at risk. Several outbreaks, both large and small, have been linked to large gatherings here in Saskatchewan and around the world. Any gathering with more than 10 people outdoors are in violation of the current public health order.”

June 8 is the target date for phase three of the Reopen Saskatchewan Plan when the size limit for outdoor gatherings will bump up to 30 people.

The government is encouraging people to organize gatherings where they are in their vehicles, or if a group is marching on foot, to make sure a distance of two metres or more between each person is followed at all times. Mask use and frequent hand hygiene is also encouraged.

“While peaceful public protests are a part of our democracy, please be aware of the elevated risk to yourself and your loved ones, particularly those in your extended household who may be more vulnerable.”

Two more rallies have been planned in the coming days in Regina following Tuesday’s protest. One is expected to happen on Friday with the other on Sunday.