Although Saskatchewan has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, if you compare by population, we are not seeing the same surge other parts of the country are experiencing. That from Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab, who continues to emphasize the only way to keep case numbers down is for everyone to follow the safety protocols.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority’s CEO, Scott Livingstone, explains that limiting visits to compassionate reasons only fort the Yorkton hospital and the Yorkton and District Long Term Care Home are a precaution because of the increasing number of cases of the virus in the area. Last week, 3 healthcare workers at the hospital tested positive, but through contact tracing, it’s believed the staff caught it elsewhere. Livingstone says reducing visitation is done while the contact tracing investigation continues until they know for sure there is not a bigger problem at the facility. There are no cases at the long term care home.

COVID-19 outbreaks were declared last week at the Yorkton Regional High School, the hospital and the Pumphouse Athletic Gym, which Shahab says is where the original transmissions came from.

If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and are considering going to the drive-thru testing site, either in Regina or Saskatoon, the SHA is advising to wait 48 hours. Livingstone says it’s not a matter of testing capacity. It’s because if your symptoms have just begun, you should wait until they are more established for a more accurate result. He adds that you will get the same advice if you call the HealthLine 811.
If you woke up with a symptom and call 811, they will book you in for 2 days from that time. If you have already had symptoms for awhile, your test will be booked more quickly.