The federal government has announced that it will send 140 million COVID-19 rapid inspections to states and territories, saying inspections are an important tool for combating pandemics.
“I think we all understand that rapid testing is part of the pass-through. [the pandemic]”. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a press conference on January 5.
This move is due to a lack of test kits, or because authorities have assigned them to specific vulnerable populations, which proved difficult to access tests in certain jurisdictions. increase.
Trudeau was joined by other officials, including Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Director, when he provided the latest information on the status of COVID-19 in the country.
Trudeau acknowledged the frustration of Canadians facing new pandemic-related health measures and the limitations caused by Omicron variants.
“There is no silver bullet for this. None of us want to be here right now,” he said.
“But we know what to do to get over it. And I know Canadians keep doing it. I’m tired. I’m frustrated. We’re together. You can get over this. “
Regarding the federal response, Trudeau said 120 million rapid tests have already been provided to states and territories. With 200 Canadian Army members also stationed in Quebec to support vaccination, the government has expanded the eligibility of programs to help people affected by public health restrictions.
“There are many reasons why we are hopeful and optimistic about the future,” said Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos, despite the rapid spread of Omicron variants.
Duclos said the country has made great strides with seven million booster doses nationwide and more than 40% of children aged 5 to 11 years receiving the first dose.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland also provided updates: “The federal government has provided $ 8 of the $ 10 spent in Canada to fight the pandemic and help Canadians.” Said.
According to Freeland, the government has expanded its qualifications for financial support to companies affected by the blockade by temporarily lowering the revenue reduction threshold from 40% to 25%. An additional 25 percent of rent support for companies affected by the complete blockade is also available.
Health officials said they are not currently considering changing the definition of what is “fully vaccinated,” but once the vaccine booster program is “significantly rolled out,” Tam said. You can revisit the problem.
According to Tam, vaccines available around the world provide “substantial protection against serious consequences,” but “even if booster doses can boost some, they are not good enough to reduce the prevalence of the Omicron virus. “.
Tam also addressed the issue of jurisdiction, reducing quarantine time for vaccinated individuals from 10 to 5 days.
She said the most preventative approach was to lengthen the quarantine period, but mentioned the need for society to continue to function, especially the health care system and other important infrastructure.
“These are difficult decisions that the state must make,” she said.
follow
Noé Charter is a Montreal-based Epoch Times reporter.