Canada sees slowing COVID-19 death toll as PM urges continued isolation

Canada's top medical official expressed optimism about a slowing death toll from the coronavirus, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau advised that current isolation measures should continue for the time being.

The country's public health agency reported a daily increase in deaths of less than 6%, marking the seventh consecutive day of a slowing toll and the lowest daily percentage increase in a week.

Chief Public Health Officer Theresa Tam stated that the implemented actions are yielding encouraging results, but cautioned that the challenge is far from over.

Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized the importance of individual contributions to public health recommendations, including staying home, to overcome the crisis collectively.

Several Canadian provinces are developing strategies to gradually reopen their economies, contingent on maintaining social distancing and workplace safety measures.

Saskatchewan, with a relatively low number of cases, plans to begin a phased economic restart on May 4, with Premier Scott Moe assuring it will be done collaboratively with other provinces and can be adjusted as needed.

In contrast, the most populous provinces, Ontario and Quebec, have recorded over 80% of Canada's total positive diagnoses.

Ontario announced an extension of school closures until May 29, with the education minister hoping for a return to classes in September.