Canadian Prime Minister’s spouse Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, according to a tweet by communication director Cameron Ahmad earlier today (13 March), adding that prime minister Justin Trudeau is in “good health with no symptoms”.
Mr Ahmad stated that Mrs Trudeau will remain in isolation at the moment and is taking all the recommended precautions. Her symptoms remain mild. As for the prime minister, he will be in isolation for 14 days as a precaution.
“As a precautionary measure and following the advice of doctors, he will be in isolation for a planned period of 14 days,” said Mr Ahmad. “Also on the advice of doctors, he will not be tested at this stage since he has no symptoms.”
Update on Sophie & the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/EkJL5rWGUN
— Cameron Ahmad (@CameronAhmad) March 13, 2020
Mr Ahmad also shared Mrs Trudeau’s statement where she said, “Although I’m experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus, I will be back on my feet soon”. She added that other Canadian families and patients may be facing more serious health concerns.
Personal message from Sophie. pic.twitter.com/rXVilM6dxH
— Cameron Ahmad (@CameronAhmad) March 13, 2020
Earlier on Thursday (12 March), the prime minister’s office released a statement that Mr Trudeau has opted for self-isolation after his wife showed signs of COVID-19 virus and was tested for the virus.
Mrs Trudeau began exhibiting mild flu-like symptoms and a minor fever after returning from a speaking engagement in London and immediately sought medical advice.
It also stated that Trudeau’s meeting with provincial and territorial premiers will be postponed due to the evolving coronavirus situation across Canada.
“The prime minister and deputy prime minister will speak with First Ministers over the phone to discuss our collective action to limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep Canadians safe,” it remarked.
Canada has reported 142 confirmed cases of COVID-19 virus and one fatality to date (13 March).
Canada announced $1 billion COVID-19 package
On 11 March, Mr Trudeau announced a $1 billion package to aid the country’s healthcare system against the virus outbreak crisis and half of the budget will go to provinces and territories, The Canadian Press reported.
The announcement was made on the same day the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.
The package includes $500 million to fund provinces and territories in buying equipment, increase testing for the virus and enhance surveillance as well as monitoring; $275 million for additional research for vaccine development; and $50 million to aid healthcare workers in buying masks and other supplies.
To assist workers and businesses impacted by the outbreak, the federal government will also waive the waiting period for employment insurance and explore other measures to support the people amid the virus outbreak, including income supports for those who are not qualified for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.
“I want all premiers and Canadians to know your government is here for you,” said Mr Trudeau. “We will make sure you have everything you need.”
