The latest numbers on COVID-19 are out and there are two deaths to report which brings the total to 13.
The province says two residents of the Far North region who tested positive for the virus have died. One was in their 60’s and the other was in their 70’s.
There are four new cases being reported on Monday with three of the four cases coming out of Saskatoon and the other in the Far North. It brings the provincial total to 654 with 17 of those cases considered active. There are no recoveries being reported meaning that total stands at 624.
Despite the two deaths and four new cases. the COVID-19 numbers continue to be low as Phase 3 of Re-Open Saskatchewan started Monday with bars and restaurants being allowed to open at 50 percent capacity along with gyms, childcare facilities and places of worship once again allowed to conduct business.
As more and more businesses open, Premier Moe said we have proven we can control the spread of the virus, but it has not disappeared.
Meanwhile, there is good news for those wanting to spend a day at the beach or send their kids to the playground.
As of Friday, outdoor playgrounds, beaches and associated washrooms can open with guidelines for those facilities being found in the “Re-Open Saskatchewan” plan. It will include measures such as physical distancing, frequent handwashing and enhanced cleaning and disinfection of washrooms.
Provincial chief medical health officer Dr. Saqib Shahab knows there have been many parents looking for playgrounds to open and he saw the frustration for himself this weekend while out and about.
“I saw a bit of a toddler playground rebellion. I saw some parents actually cutting away the tape.” Shahab said. “I think there’s a lot of frustration.”
The city of Regina has said that it will follow with what has been done by the government meaning playgrounds in the city will once again be open giving a chance for many kids to blow off some energy as summer approaches.
