There are now 72 cases of COVID 19 in Saskatchewan. Six more were announced on Tuesday. 60 per cent of those with the virus are male, 40 per cent are female.

Of the 72 cases, two are 19 years and younger, 59 are between the ages of 20 and 64 while 11 are 65 years and older.

Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s Chief Medical Health Officer says so far 120 thousand tests have been conducted in Canada which works out to almost 10,000 people a day.

More than 2,790 cases have been reported in Canada and 27 people have died.

In preparation for the fallout from COVID-19, the Saskatchewan Health Authority has already initiated measures like slowing down non-essential services to increase bed availability, preserving supplies and preparing a labour pool for reallocation.

They will also create dedicated spaces for COVID-19 patients in facilities, creation of COVID-19 designated hospitals in Saskatoon and Regina as well as wherever else is required in the province. As well, they are planning to deliver, if needed, acute care in the community. like field hospitals in school gyms, community centres and rinks.

The SHA says modelling from other jurisdictions suggests that this virus may affect 30 per cent of the population and result in thousands needing hospitalization.