COVID-19 update – March 28

By Mo Cranker on March 28, 2020.

Medicine Hat News

No cases of COVID-19 have surfaced in the Medicine Hat area’s seniors homes and long-term care facilities, the local top medical officer confirmed to the News on Friday. None of the five local cases has required hospitalization.

Provincial action
The province further increased restrictions on the size of gatherings, on Friday and has halted evictions for rental housing. Story here.

49-cent gasoline
Gas prices in Walsh, Alta are set to 49-cents per litre, a level not seen in more than 25 years, as the local station owner says selling at a loss is his way of helping out. “We always like to show the best side instead of the worst side,” said Anwar Kamaran.

New Fed support
Programs for wage subsidies, GST remittance, business loans and payments to the unemployed all changed Friday as Ottawa added to supports put in place earlier this week. Story here.

Hatters step up
A local distillery that is now making hand sanitizer has partnered with local bike shop, Cyclepath, which will deliver the goods around the city.

Somewhat open
The Medicine Hat Public library is acting to help Hatters access its materials during the pandemic response. Story here.

City update
City council was updated on city response and new potential actions to support residents and businesses under financial strain on Friday. Story here.

Sunshine
As temperatures are forecast to hit 16C on Sunday, the local parks department is asking Hatters who are seeking fresh air to avoid play areas such as tennis and basketball courts, and to be be courteous on the trail system.

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