State of Emergency

​Manitoba is declaring a state of emergency amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Premier Brian Pallister announced this morning. "This is to prepare us, to put us on that footing, so we're able to react and be nimble," Pallister said. "This is not something we take lightly. We respect the individual rights and freedoms of all our citizens." There is also a public health order to observe a 50-person gathering limit. Restaurants and bars are limited to 50 people or half capacity, whatever is lower. Places like gyms, bingo halls and fitness centres also are to be closed. Pallister said the emergency measure will be in place for 30 days. COVID-19: What you need to know about states of emergency There are 17 confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 in the province. One person has been hospitalized.  Manitoba has done 3,554 tests for the virus. The premier urged Manitobans to do their part by volunteering to help others, taking care of children and donating blood.