104.1 The Dock

DAY 24 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 24 of the COVID-19 pandemic. An unvarnished view of what we should expect in the coming days and weeks in Ontario's fight against COVID-19. And Ontario’s fight is Canada’s fight <<<>>>> Here’s what you need to know on Friday, April 3, 2020 Some dire projections from Ontario this afternoon. As promised, Premier Doug Ford and provincial public health officials shared their COVID-19 modelling projections. Doctor Peter Donnelly is the CEO of Public Health Ontario. He told the Queen’s Park press gallery …and laid out the stark numbers the Premier’s referred to. You heard correctly. The best case scenario, if we all do everything we can to curb the spread of COVID-19, Dr. Donelly says there would be 3000-15000 COVID related deaths in the next 18-24 months. For some important perspective… The death rate for influenza in Canada is 500 to 1500 cases per year. 500-1500 for all of Canada. Based on the projections presented Friday afternoon, Ontario’s COVID death toll alone would 6 to 10 times greater than the national death toll from the flu. Dr. Donelly stresses in order to keep those numbers as low as possible, we must all take an aggressive stance…Flattening the curve won’t be good enough. We need to chop the top off the curve. Even at that, given this best-case scenario…the projections suggest 80 thousand Ontarians will be infected by COVID-19 by the end of April. And the Premier says that’s going to mean hundreds of fatalities in mere weeks. Again, for some perspective, the modelling suggests Ontario’s death toll would be more than 1600 by the end of the month. As of Friday afternoon on April the 3rd, Ontario is reporting 67 deaths It means the wave will continue to mount, it’s far from cresting and will crash into our already stressed healthcare services. The projections suggesting that Ontario’s Intensive Care Unit beds will be at capacity within weeks and will still be stressed if the province is able to add 900 more beds before the end of April. Much has been made of the shortage of medical supplies and that became more complicated when US President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act requiring companies to prioritize the production of masks and ventilators to fight the spread of COVID-19. Sugical mask manufacturer 3M says the White House has requested it cease exports of U.S.-made N95 face masks to Canada. 3M is pushing back on the order and so is Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trudeau wouldn’t comment on whether the federal government is considering imposing retaliatory measures. <<<<>>>> For all the attention on data and modelling and projecting what may be coming… But there was data hiding in plain view four months ago that predicted the novel corona virus that has resulted in the COVID-19 pandemic. Katherine Ellison is an author and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist based in San Fransisco who says researchers combed through social media data in December saw the rise of the new corona virus in China. <<<<>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 23 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 23 of the COVID-19 pandemic. And Canadians are demanding to see the numbers that governments are seeing. How bad will this outbreak really be? Here’s what you need to know on Thursday, April 2, 2020 PM Trudeau questioned on COVID-19 projections, implores people to stay home 'You deserve to know': Ontario will release modelling data on 'extremely serious' COVID-19 threat Canada's COVID-19 cases surpass 10,000 COVID-19: Cases jump to nearly 2,100 in Montreal, with 14 deaths Number of COVID-19 deaths confirmed by local public health units is nearly double what Ontario is reporting New rule prohibits walking within two metres of another person in Toronto parks. Offenders could face fines of up to $5000. And Canada’s major charities and non-profit organizations say the time has come for them to be represented at the federal Cabinet table to cope with the COVID-19 fallout. <<<<<>>>>> We are now into the fourth week of the COVID-19 pandemic and we are universally being told that the struggle to come is going to be tougher than anything we’ve seen so far. So, it’s not surprising that Canadians want to understand what to expect. How bad will this be? What are the projections for confirmed cases, for fatalities, for supply shortages? The Prime Minister addressed the issue in his daily briefing this morning, but he offered no specifics. Trudeau did say the matter of sharing the modelling projections would be the subject of discussion when the first minister’s meet this evening. But Ontario’s Premier, Doug Ford made a firm commitment this afternoon to share the numbers and projections he’s seeing with the public. But, he warns, we aren’t going to like what we see. <<<<>>>> And Canada’s major charities and non-profit organizations say the time has come for them to be represented at the federal Cabinet table to cope with the COVID-19 fallout. Our RoundTable discussion includes Mark Rodgers, President and CEO at Leadership Village, Bruce MacDonald, President and CEO of Imagine Canada and Dr. Samantha Nutt, founder of War Child USA and Canada <<<<>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. <<<<>>>> DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 22 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Today, we begin WEEK 4 on DAY 22 of the COVID-19 pandemic. And all indications are that the toughest fight is still to come with Public Health officials telling us we should expect little relief from the isolation and physical distancing measures for months…not weeks. Here’s what you need to know on Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 *Toronto’s top doctor Dr. Eileen de Villa says she wouldn’t expect public health measures will have to remain in place up to 12 more weeks. Despite some “glimmer’s of hope” in some jurisdictions, the numbers continue to rise sharply right across the country… There's been a 500% increase in 14 days…in Toronto alone. Toronto’s Mayor John Tory ordered city events and venues to be canceled and closed in the coming weeks. That includes Pride Week at the end of June. Tory says it only underlines the seriousness of the situation.. The questions of how much and how long…were among the questions posed to Prime Minister Trudeau during his Wednesday morning briefing. *Christopher Nardi at the National Post cites a government document that “Current GoC [Government Operations Centre] modelling suggests as a best case scenario that current measures continue until at least July.” Meanwhile….Ontario’s Premier, Doug Ford says there are 'Dark days ahead': warning little separates the province from devastation we’ve seen in Italy and Spain. Researchers in Calgary also have a warning for you. Beware of the “conspiracy” theories you may see in your social media feeds. A report released by the University of Calgary School of Public Policy suggests Russia is waging a disinformation war and you are the target. Using various platforms, the campaign offers “evidence” the virus was created in America in order to halt the economic growth of China. <<<<<>>>> It’s our intention and effort to make sure you’ve got a broad range of the best information available about COVID-19…and that’s why I make sure we provide links to the sources we’re using and to the voices we’re quoting. And it’s clear there’s an appetite for up to date, reliable and resourced information about COVID-19. To date, we’ve had more than 61 thousand downloads for our daily show and those numbers continue to increase. So thank you for listening. Thank you for the questions you’re sending along. I promise we will get to them and I will let each of you know when your questions will be addressed in the coming shows. We’re in this for the long haul…right along with you. If you like what you hear… I’d be grateful if you’d subscribe. I’d be thrilled if you shared it through your social media networks. <<<<<>>>> One the media outlets that has been on the forefront of the COVID-19 story is STAT News out of Boston. And I had the opportunity to talk to STAT’s senior science writer Sharon Begley on my Weekend Morning Show on Newstalk 1010, back in early February. The headline on the story questioned: What happens if we don’t contain the novel Corona Virus? Nearly two months later, here we are. Sharon Begley joined us from her home office in Boston and for all of our best intentions, as smart as we may all be…it’s clear that we didn’t pay close enough attention to this. If we’d responded sooner we may have been able to avoid some of the grief we’re going through now, never mind save some lives. Sharon Begley is a Senior Science Writer with STAT news <<<>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. <<<<>>>> DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 21 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

The COIVD-19 Daily Podcast https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_coronavirus_pandemic_in_Canada#January https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019%E2%80%9320_coronavirus_pandemic_in_mainland_China This is DAY 21 of the COVID-19 pandemic. 3 weeks ago, March 10th, Canada had 96 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Today, at the time of this recording, Canada has nearly 82 hundred cases. More than half of all Canadian cases to date are in the province of Quebec/ Here’s what you need to know on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 Business is putting the common good ahead of the bottom line. Industries across Canada are stepping up to help fight the COVID-19 outbreak. Non-medical industries are retooling to manufacture made in Canada medical supplies. The help can’t come soon enough. Quebec’s premier says the province could run out of key medical supplies in 3 to 7 days Ontario Premier Doug Ford extends state of emergency for another two weeks Food industry 'decimated' as consumers abandon restaurants, report finds Air Canada to temporarily lay off 16,500 staff Lines of urns in Wuhan prompt questions about the veracity of China's COVID-19 death toll Moscow orders partial lockdown as coronavirus cases in the capital pass 1,000 mark US President Donald Trump says US in good shape to meet 'peak' <<<<>>>> Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government is spending $2 billion to procure more diagnostic testing, ventilators, and personal protective equipment for front-line workers in the COVID-19 fight, with some supplies set to be ready within days. Trudeau says a handful of companies are close to or have already signed contracts with the government to help boost the health sector’s stockpile of medical supplies. Every sector of the economy has been staggered by the COVID-19 outbreak but there are questions and concerns that restaurants may not recover. David Lefebvre is a VP at Restaurants Canada. He tells BNN Bloomberg it’s nothing short of carnage. Today marks the end of the first quarter for 2020. The TSX closed the day up 2 and a quarter per cent…but down more than 20% since the first of the year. <<<<<>>>>> This pandemic has shaken our health and wealth to their core…and in the coming months governments and business will be forced to recalibrate our approaches to everything from government service delivery to long standing corporate cultures. Tony Chapman at Tony Chapman Reactions is a marketing strategist and host of the podcast Chatter that Matters. He says we will have to act quickly to respond to the lessons learned from this crisis. An important part of the culture change will include a broader corporate focus on social purpose, i.e., placing the interests of corporate stakeholders, employees, and consumers on par with corporate shareholders. Faith Goodman is the CEO of Goodman Sustainability Group and says we’re already seeing several large Canada companies step up and put “community first”. <<<<>>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 20 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 20 of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are told that what we do or fail to do today to help curb the spread of COVID-19 will be felt three weeks from today. Three months ago, Canada had 1 confirmed case. Three weeks ago, Canada reported 96 confirmed cases. Today, at the time of this recording, Canada has more than 72 hundred cases. Here’s what you need to know on Monday, March 30th, 2020 PM Trudeau updates businesses aid eligibility, says military 'gearing up' for COVID-19 response Most Quebec stores will be closed on Sundays as coronavirus cases mount Ontario Premier Doug Ford extends state of emergency for another two weeks Saskatchewan reports First 2 deaths from COVID-19 and 20 new cases Seven residents of a long-term care home in Bobcaygeon, Ont. have died after a respiratory outbreak was declared at the facility on March 18. Three other residents and 24 staff members have tested positive for the virus. COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. reached 2,479 on Sunday, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University, surpassing the 2,445 American casualties recorded in the war in Afghanistan. A Second wave of virus feared in Wuhan,China An outbreak slowdown suggests restrictions in Seattle working <<<<>>>> Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered more details about the wage subsidy program he announced on Friday morning. The subsidy will apply to businesses that have lost 30% or more in revenues due to the pressures of the pandemic and it will apply to all businesses no matter how many workers they employ. But the PM also made it clear there would be no tolerance for companies attempting to “game” the system. Trudeau also says the Canadian Armed Forces are prepared to step up and support vulnerable communities; and assist provinces or municipalities with logistics or direct assistance if needed. In other news… Religious and faith communities along with other non-profit charitable organizations are facing severe cashflow pressures…so much so that they are laying off staff and risk curtailing the support they provide for the marginalized and at-risk members of communities across the country. Neil MacCarthy is the Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Archdiocese of Toronto. He says the situation is on the verge of dire. Dr. Samantha Nutt is the founder and president of War Child Canada. She has sent a letter to the federal government with more than 200 non-profit signatories calling on Ottawa to treat these charities like essential service. <<<<>>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 19 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 19 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what you need to know on Sunday, March 29th, 2020 Prime Minister Trudeau announced new funding to help seniors and children affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. United Way Canada will receive $9 million to distribute to local organizations to support, while Kids Help Phone will receive $7.5 million to bring on additional counsellors. Trudeau also says he will continue his self-isolation until he has no reason to believe he could have been exposed to COVID-19 for more than 14 days. Meanwhile, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has been given a clean bill of health. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 12th. Washington’s top-infectious disease expert is warning he coronavirus outbreak could kill as many as 200,000 Americans. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, made the dire prediction of fatalities on CNN's "State of the Union," suggesting that millions in the U.S. could become infected. By midday Sunday, the U.S. had about 125,000 infections and 2,200 deaths, according to the running tally kept by Johns Hopkins University. <<<<>>>> As we wade through the effects and COVID-19 on our health and our economy, there is no shortage of questions as the pandemic begins to affect the lives and livelihoods of Canadians. So we want to devote this episode to some of those questions and we ask them of our cast of medical, science, legal and financial experts. We’re first joined by Dr. Mitch Shulman – an Emergency Medicine specialist in Montreal and Preet Banerjee – a wealth management consultant and founder of MoneyGaps. <<<<>>>> In this segment we’re joined by Dr. Marla Shapiro, CTV’s medical correspondent and Howard Levitt – an employment and labour lawyer.. <<<<>>>> We will feature more of your FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS in coming episodes. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Weekly Podcast Special with Dave Trafford

March 28 - Welcome to this SPECIAL edition of the COVID-19 Podcast for Bell Media and iHeart Radio. In this hour we will get into the big questions and issues that we confronted this week in the fight against COVID-19. While the number of cases continues to rise around the world and across Canada, the health crisis is quickly becoming a financial crisis and this week was all about the money. So we begin by talking about the bounces we saw on the markets in Canada and the US. Jon Erlichman is the host of The Open on BNN BLOOMBERG and he spoke to me from his home office in Toronto…and we started by addressing the relief package outlined and passed by Parliament on Wednesday morning. <<<<<<<>>>>>> We are now well into WEEK 3 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada’s government has launched its relief package for Canadians and businesses affected by the outbreak. But is it enough? Especially to help small and medium sized businesses…I asked Catherine Swift, former President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Indpendent Business and Tony Chapman for Tony Chapman Reactions and host of the podcast CHATTER THAT MATTERS. Coming Up….we’ll touch base with our medical correspondent, Dr. Mitch Shulman.. <<<<<>>>>> DISLAIMER Dr. Mitch Schulman is a Montreal Emergency Physician and is just wrapping up 14 days of self isolation. Mitch had attended a conference in Africa just before the pandemic was declared and we require to isolate when he came home. He is encouraged by the global response but is still concerned by what we’re seeing. Many of us are experiencing our own fears and frustrations as we cope with this crisis…and Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s frustrations were on full display Thursday afternoon…when he called out a Toronto grocery store – accusing Pusateris of gouging its customers. In a statement, Pusateris called the issue a “mistake” and promised to issue full refunds to customers who purchased the product at the higher price point. “Our stores are facing immense pressure on all levels of operation,” CEO Frank Luchetta said in a statement. “As a result of this mounting pressure, critical elements were overlooked including the incorrect pricing of this product. “This was our mistake, our error, our oversight and we apologize to everyone impacted." Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts – just search on OUTBREAK: The Covid-19 Daily Podcast.

DAY 18 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 18 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what you need to know on Saturday, March 28th, 2020 More travel restrictions in Canada. Prime Minister Trudeau says Canadians with COVID-19 symptoms to be denied boarding on domestic flights and trains Ontario corporations, individuals could face 'staggering' fines for price gouging And Premier Doug Ford says his government is considering a ban on gatherings of more than 5 people. B.C Health officials say physical distancing restrictions are successfully beginning to slow the rate of spread of new COVID-19 cases in the province, perhaps by as much as half. China donates thousands of medical masks, personal protective equipment to Canada A lab in the US has received marketing approval for a diagnostic test for the coronavirus that can deliver results to patients within minutes and be used in physicians offices and urgent care clinics, as well as hospitals. <<<<<>>>>> The Prime Minister held his daily briefing outside his official residence in Ottawa Saturday morning and announced more travel restrictions – these are focused on domestic travel.. Canada's Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Howard Njoo says these restrictions are an extension of the physical distance orders…telling Canadians to stay in your "bubble." On Thursday, you may have heard Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford accusing a Toronto grocer of gouging customers. On Saturday, Ford said his government has taken steps to outlaw any and all price gouging – including stiff fines and potential jail time. <<<<>>>> We know that hospitals are bracing for the next wave of pressures in their intensive care units in the coming days and weeks. And that is why public health officials have been so adamant about flattening the curve – by that they mean – slowing the rate of increases in confirmed cases. Flattening the curve doesn’t mean an end to the virus, but theoretically, it means there would be fewer patients demanding precious critical health care resources. If the system is overwhelmed, healthcare and hospital officials will be facing daily ethical questions and life and death decisions. Kerry Bowman is a Clinical Ethicist at Mount Sinai Hospital and a professor at the University of Toronto. Professor Bowman joined us from his home office to talk about the challenges ahead. <<<<>>>> Just a programming note: We will devote tomorrow’s podcast episode to the FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS we’ve been getting from you. And we’ve put them to our cast of medical, science, financial and legal experts. If you have a question or A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 17 of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here’s what you need to know on Friday, March 27, 2020

Ottawa is taking a major step forward to support businesses and workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. This might be the best news most Canadians have heard since the pandemic was declared on March 11th. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government is prepared to subsidize salaries to help keep families and businesses afloat during the crisis.

Also today..

COVID-19 has now killed more people in Canada than SARS 44 people died of SARS in Canada in 2003. As of Friday afternoon, 53 have died after testing positive for COVID-19.

18 people have now died of COVID-19 in Quebec. The province has more than 2,000 confirmed cases.

British PM Boris Johnson tests positive for COVID-19. He says he is showing minor symptoms.

If you have a question…or A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

DISCLAIMER:

THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 17 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 17 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what you need to know on Friday, March 27, 2020 Ottawa is taking a major step forward to support businesses and workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. This might be the best news most Canadians have heard since the pandemic was declared on March 11th. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government is prepared to subsidize salaries to help keep families and businesses afloat during the crisis. Also today.. COVID-19 has now killed more people in Canada than SARS 44 people died of SARS in Canada in 2003. As of Friday afternoon, 53 have died after testing positive for COVID-19. 18 people have now died of COVID-19 in Quebec. The province has more than 2,000 confirmed cases. British PM Boris Johnson tests positive for COVID-19. He says he is showing minor symptoms. If you have a question…or A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 16 of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Let’s start with some perspective, 9 months from today is BOXING DAY! How will our holiday family gatherings look 9 months from now? It may well have a lot to do with how we behave today. We know that our actions or inactions will be reflected in the COVID-19 cases and circumstances we face – three from now. What are you doing to help plank the curve?

Here’s what you need to know on Thursday, March 26th, 2020

While US President Donald Trump muses about deploying the military near the Canada-US border, Prime Minister Trudeau says it is now mandatory for those crossing the border into Canada to go directly into a 14-day quarantine.

Quebec grocery stores kick out returning snowbird not self-isolating despite mandatory COVID-19 quarantine

Trudeau is cautioning Canadians to be wary of a “text scam” aimed at exploiting people who are looking to apply for the new emergency aid benefit.

Ontario premier slams high-end Toronto grocery store for selling $30 Lysol wipes

There are five new cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia, including a case that may be linked to a party. This brings the total number of cases in the province to 73.

Break-ins have quadrupled in Vancouver as stores shut for COVID-19

There are more than 75 thousand confirmed cases in the US and the death toll has reached more than 1000.

A record 3.3 million people filed claims for unemployment in the US last week as the Covid-19 pandemic shut down large parts of America’s economy

<<<<>>>>

The Prime Minister is prepared to fine, even jail, Canadians coming home from abroad who fail to go into isolation for 14 days.

Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s Officer of Health, held her daily briefing today – suggesting as tough as it’s been over the past couple of weeks, we should prepare for things to get tougher.

With that in mind…the Prime Minister says the G20 leaders have been engaged in a global discussion to coordinate efforts to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak.

The PM also detailed some of the initiatives passed by Parliament this week to help Canadians who are affected by the pandemic. That includes relief for workers who’ve been laid off or have to stay home. But so far, it doesn’t address the debt and interest payments Canadians are carrying on their credit cards.

<<<<>>>>

We’re into week three of this global pandemic and frustrations are increasing. It was evident today when Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford was asked about retailers that are price gouging consumers. Ford called out a high end grocery store – PUSATERIS – for charging $30 for Lysol wipes.

In a statement, Pusateris called the issue a “mistake” and promised to issue full refunds to customers who purchased the product at the higher price point.

“Our stores are facing immense pressure on all levels of operation,” CEO Frank Luchetta said in a statement. “As a result of this mounting pressure, critical elements were overlooked including the incorrect pricing of this product.

“This was our mistake, our error, our oversight and we apologize to everyone impacted.”

IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

DISCLAIMER:

THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 16 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 16 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s start with some perspective, 9 months from today is BOXING DAY! How will our holiday family gatherings look 9 months from now? It may well have a lot to do with how we behave today. We know that our actions or inactions will be reflected in the COVID-19 cases and circumstances we face – three from now. What are you doing to help plank the curve? Here’s what you need to know on Thursday, March 26th, 2020 While US President Donald Trump muses about deploying the military near the Canada-US border, Prime Minister Trudeau says it is now mandatory for those crossing the border into Canada to go directly into a 14-day quarantine. Quebec grocery stores kick out returning snowbird not self-isolating despite mandatory COVID-19 quarantine Trudeau is cautioning Canadians to be wary of a “text scam” aimed at exploiting people who are looking to apply for the new emergency aid benefit. Ontario premier slams high-end Toronto grocery store for selling $30 Lysol wipes There are five new cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia, including a case that may be linked to a party. This brings the total number of cases in the province to 73. Break-ins have quadrupled in Vancouver as stores shut for COVID-19 There are more than 75 thousand confirmed cases in the US and the death toll has reached more than 1000. A record 3.3 million people filed claims for unemployment in the US last week as the Covid-19 pandemic shut down large parts of America’s economy <<<<>>>> The Prime Minister is prepared to fine, even jail, Canadians coming home from abroad who fail to go into isolation for 14 days. Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s Officer of Health, held her daily briefing today – suggesting as tough as it’s been over the past couple of weeks, we should prepare for things to get tougher. With that in mind…the Prime Minister says the G20 leaders have been engaged in a global discussion to coordinate efforts to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak. The PM also detailed some of the initiatives passed by Parliament this week to help Canadians who are affected by the pandemic. That includes relief for workers who’ve been laid off or have to stay home. But so far, it doesn’t address the debt and interest payments Canadians are carrying on their credit cards. <<<<>>>> We’re into week three of this global pandemic and frustrations are increasing. It was evident today when Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford was asked about retailers that are price gouging consumers. Ford called out a high end grocery store – PUSATERIS – for charging $30 for Lysol wipes. In a statement, Pusateris called the issue a “mistake” and promised to issue full refunds to customers who purchased the product at the higher price point. “Our stores are facing immense pressure on all levels of operation,” CEO Frank Luchetta said in a statement. “As a result of this mounting pressure, critical elements were overlooked including the incorrect pricing of this product. “This was our mistake, our error, our oversight and we apologize to everyone impacted.” IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

And, we begin WEEK 3….This is DAY 15 of the COVID-19 pandemic.

And today is all about following the money. Ottawa, Ontario, Bay Street and Wall Street make financial and market news, while the numbers of COVID-19 cases continue to soar around the world.

Here’s what you need to know on Wednesday, March 25th, 2020

The Trudeau government has moved to streamline employment insurance benefits for Canadians who are now unemployed, or off work because of COVID-19

Ontario is introducing a $17-billion package to support the health sector, people and businesses through the COVID-19 outbreak.

Bay Street and Wall Street end the day with gains for the second day in a row. It’s the first back-to-back rally on the TSX since the COVID-19 crisis began.

Spain reported 738 new deaths in one day on Wednesday. Spain is now second only to Italy in worldwide deaths from COVID-19, after it surpassed China, where the outbreak began.

Frontline healthcare workers in the UK are threatening to quit over fears of inadequate protective equipment

71-year-old Prince Charles has tested positive for COVID-19. He is showing mild symptoms and is self-isolating at a royal estate in Scotland, his Clarence House office said. His wife Camilla, 72, has tested negative.

India mounted the largest attempted lockdown yet in the coronavirus crisis Tuesday night, ordering 1.3 billion people to stay at home for three weeks to prevent a public health disaster

The IOC decision to postpone the Summer Olympics will cost American broadcast networks more than $1billion in lost ad revenue this year.

<<<<>>>>

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered some details on the $82 billion relief package passed by the House of Commons early this morning…and by the Senate midday today. The Prime Minister says Ottawa is streamlining some of the EI benefits for Canadians affected by the pandemic.

Getting the money into the hands of Canadians is critical now that we’re seeing thousands of layoffs announced each day. BNN Bloomberg is estimating nearly 1 million Canadians have applied for Employment Insurance since the pandemic was declared two weeks ago.

Other countries have presented similar relief packages but Denmark and Germany have committed to providing wage subsidies up to 70% to avoid layoffs. Trudeau says that it on the agenda for Ottawa.

Meanwhile, Trudeau is relying on all Canadians who are abroad to self-isolate when they return home.

To be clear, self-isolation is required but the Prime Minister isn’t making it mandatory.

<<<<<>>>>>>

Getting cash in to the system in an efficient and timely fashion may well be the difference between survival and failure for business and families across the country.

John Manley is the former Liberal Deputy Minister. He told BNN Bloomberg the federal package is a good first step and says we can be proud of how parliament worked.

But is this enough to avoid mass layoffs as we saw at the Leon’s Furniture chain today?

Manley 17

Manley also expects the $82 billion to be the first step in the federal government commitment to offset the financial effects of the COVID-19 crisis.

Manley 18

<<<<<<<>>>>>>

So….how did the markets respond to the stimulus and relief packages in Ottawa and Washington?

<<<<<<<>>>>>>

Ontario’s Finance minister Rod Phillips had intended to present his annual budget at Queen’s Park this month but the COVID-19 pandemic made that impossible. So he presented an economic statement in the legislature Wednesday afternoon. It’s a $17billion package aimed at supporting healthcare and business.

Keith Leslie is a veteran political commentator at Newstalk1010 radio in Toronto…and Co-hosts – On the Ledge – with John Wright and me. It’s the Ontario politics podcast.

Keith joins us now from his home office in Toronto.

<Keith>

<<<<<>>>>>

So, here we are at the end of DAY 15 of this COVID-19 Pandemic. We are entering week three and, by all accounts the next three weeks are going to be the toughest we have seen as this strain of the corona virus continues to spread around the world and across Canada.

Just a reminder, three weeks ago today Canada had 34 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As we record this podcast, we have more than 32 hundred cases country wide. What you do today will make a difference in how that curve continues in the next three weeks.

<<<<>>>>

IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

DISCLAIMER:

THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

DAY 15 - The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

And, we begin WEEK 3….This is DAY 15 of the COVID-19 pandemic. And today is all about following the money. Ottawa, Ontario, Bay Street and Wall Street make financial and market news, while the numbers of COVID-19 cases continue to soar around the world. Here’s what you need to know on Wednesday, March 25th, 2020 The Trudeau government has moved to streamline employment insurance benefits for Canadians who are now unemployed, or off work because of COVID-19 Ontario is introducing a $17-billion package to support the health sector, people and businesses through the COVID-19 outbreak. Bay Street and Wall Street end the day with gains for the second day in a row. It’s the first back-to-back rally on the TSX since the COVID-19 crisis began. Spain reported 738 new deaths in one day on Wednesday. Spain is now second only to Italy in worldwide deaths from COVID-19, after it surpassed China, where the outbreak began. Frontline healthcare workers in the UK are threatening to quit over fears of inadequate protective equipment 71-year-old Prince Charles has tested positive for COVID-19. He is showing mild symptoms and is self-isolating at a royal estate in Scotland, his Clarence House office said. His wife Camilla, 72, has tested negative. India mounted the largest attempted lockdown yet in the coronavirus crisis Tuesday night, ordering 1.3 billion people to stay at home for three weeks to prevent a public health disaster The IOC decision to postpone the Summer Olympics will cost American broadcast networks more than $1billion in lost ad revenue this year. <<<<>>>> Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered some details on the $82 billion relief package passed by the House of Commons early this morning…and by the Senate midday today. The Prime Minister says Ottawa is streamlining some of the EI benefits for Canadians affected by the pandemic. Getting the money into the hands of Canadians is critical now that we’re seeing thousands of layoffs announced each day. BNN Bloomberg is estimating nearly 1 million Canadians have applied for Employment Insurance since the pandemic was declared two weeks ago. Other countries have presented similar relief packages but Denmark and Germany have committed to providing wage subsidies up to 70% to avoid layoffs. Trudeau says that it on the agenda for Ottawa. Meanwhile, Trudeau is relying on all Canadians who are abroad to self-isolate when they return home. To be clear, self-isolation is required but the Prime Minister isn’t making it mandatory. <<<<<>>>>>> Getting cash in to the system in an efficient and timely fashion may well be the difference between survival and failure for business and families across the country. John Manley is the former Liberal Deputy Minister. He told BNN Bloomberg the federal package is a good first step and says we can be proud of how parliament worked. But is this enough to avoid mass layoffs as we saw at the Leon’s Furniture chain today? Manley 17 Manley also expects the $82 billion to be the first step in the federal government commitment to offset the financial effects of the COVID-19 crisis. Manley 18 <<<<<<<>>>>>> So….how did the markets respond to the stimulus and relief packages in Ottawa and Washington? <<<<<<<>>>>>> Ontario’s Finance minister Rod Phillips had intended to present his annual budget at Queen’s Park this month but the COVID-19 pandemic made that impossible. So he presented an economic statement in the legislature Wednesday afternoon. It’s a $17billion package aimed at supporting healthcare and business. Keith Leslie is a veteran political commentator at Newstalk1010 radio in Toronto…and Co-hosts – On the Ledge – with John Wright and me. It’s the Ontario politics podcast. Keith joins us now from his home office in Toronto. <<<<<>>>>> So, here we are at the end of DAY 15 of this COVID-19 Pandemic. We are entering week three and, by all accounts the next three weeks are going to be the toughest we have seen as this strain of the corona virus continues to spread around the world and across Canada. Just a reminder, three weeks ago today Canada had 34 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As we record this podcast, we have more than 32 hundred cases country wide. What you do today will make a difference in how that curve continues in the next three weeks. <<<<>>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 14 of the COVID-19 pandemic. We begin with some perspective on the speed of this outbreak. Three weeks ago today, we were all getting used to SPRING AHEAD time change, the Toronto Raptors were hoping to snap a two game losing streak, and it was the first time Ottawa had warned Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, China, northern Italy and parts of South Korea following a spike in cases in the previous days. There were 27 cases on March 2nd. As of this recording, Canada has more than 25 hundred cases. We are being told that our behaviour today will affect the number of cases and circumstances we find ourselves in three weeks from now. What are you doing today to change the trajectory of COVID-19? Here’s what you need to know on Tuesday, March 24th , 2020 For all the talk about a non-partisan approach to Canada’s to passing legislation designed to support Canadian workers and businesses affected by COVID-19, today’s parliamentary session had to be suspended when the Opposition parties objected to sweeping powers being granted to the cabinet and the finance minister until Dec. 2021. Meanwhile, the US Senate remains stalled as it tries to pass a COVID-19 relief package. WALL STREET and Bay Street both in the green today…The DOW up just over 11%. The TSX improved by nearly 12%. That news comes amid calls for US President Donald Trump to order the markets to be closed. NEWSWEEK reporting that Kyle Bass Chief Investment Officer of Hedge Fund Hayman Capital Management says the markets should be closed “until the number of infections in the United States declines for, let's say, two weeks consecutively.” That closure could last some time considering the World Health Organization says the US could become the new centre of the global coronavirus pandemic. The WHO says case numbers were rising quickly there even as Donald Trump talked of reopening the country for business. We told you it was coming yesterday, and this morning it was official: the Tokyo Summer Olympics are being postponed until 2021. <<<<<<>>>>> We fully expected to be able to tell you that the House of Commons had passed legislation designed to implement the $82 billion relief package the Prime Minister unveiled a week or so ago. But the Opposition has pushed back on Justin Trudeau’s legislation which would grant the federal government sweeping powers to spend money, borrow, and change taxes without parliamentary approval through to Dec. 31, 2021. As of this recording, the negotiations continue and as CTV’s Evan Solomon reports, this has been complicated further by one MP whose procedural objection to the bill will delay passage further. For the latest on that story, you can go to ctvnews.ca <<<<<<<>>>>>>> With all the focus on what government should be doing, there is a growing sense that industry and corporations are going to have to step up and bare some of the load to bridge our economy in the short term. Tony Chapman of Tony Chapman Reactions is a marketing strategist and host of the podcast Chatter that Matters. He says there are all kinds of ways large companies and suppliers can help small and medium sized businesses get through the COVID-19 crisis. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is DAY 13 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what you need to know on MONDAY, MARCH 23RD, 2020 JUSTIN TRUDEAUS SAYS “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH” Stay home. CANADA’S FIRST MINISTERS MEET TO COORDINATE THEIR COVID-19 PLANS. ONTARIO IS THE LATEST PROVINCE TO ORDER THE CLOSURE OF NON-ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES VANCOUVER CITY COUNCIL SAYS “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH” after local residents ignore calls for physical distancing. TORONTO DECLARES A STATE OF EMERGENCY British Prime Minister Boris Johnson Puts U.K. on Three-Week Lockdown as Virus Spreads IOC MEMBER DICK POUND SAYS THE TOKYO SUMMER OLYMPICS WILL BE POSTPONED. Pound told Reuters that a one-year postponement looked like the best solution. AND THE US SENATE FAILS TO ADVANCE EMERGENCY LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT AMERICANS AFFECTED BY COVID-19. <<<<<>>>>> Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made it clear, it’s time to smarten up. Trudeau made the comments at his Monday morning media briefing outside his official residence in Ottawa. The unvarnished message comes after weekend news stories were filled with images of hundreds of Canadians ignoring the calls for physical distancing. Parliament will convene Tuesday morning to pass emergency legislation designed to support Canadians affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Trudeau says there will be special measures for Canada’s agricultural sector There is also a push to develop treatments and a vaccine here in Canada.Trudeau says the federal government is prepared to invest $192 million in that effort The first ministers will convene virtually this evening and Trudeau says they will discuss and assess whether Ottawa should invoke the federal Emergencies Act. Every province has invoked their own emergency legislation. <<<<<<<>>>>> In Vancouver, there was no shortage of images and videos showing local residents who were ignoring the calls for physical and social distancing. One television newscast included video of what appeared to be a wedding being carried out on a beach. CTV’s Melanie Nagy says local leaders are more than frustrated by what they saw. Vancouver Council met Monday and voted in favour of a motion to declare city-wide state of emergency. The motion makes it an offence not to comply with the state of emergency bylaw, and imposes a fine of up to $50,000. In Toronto, Mayor John Tory wasn’t far behind. <<<<<<<>>>>>> The House Of Commons will be in session Tuesday for an historic and extraordinary sitting. Only 32 members will be in attendance along with the Speaker as the government introduces the emergency legislation intended to support Canadian families and businesses cope with the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak. Scott Reid was an advisor to former Prime Minister Paul Martin. I spoke to him earlier today about what’s coming.. <<<<<<>>>>>> How government’s respond to this crisis in the coming days will be felt around boardroom tables and kitchen tables around the world. Following the money will require as much detail as scrutiny as following the research efforts to find a vaccine. Amanda Lang is a financial commentator at BNN Bloomberg. I spoke to her on Sunday morning about the fatal effects this crisis could have on small and medium sized companies across Canada. <<<>>>> Late Sunday, the Canadian Olympic Committee said Canada will not send athletes to the Summer Games in Tokyo. This afternoon, Reuters is quoting IOC member Dick Pound as saying the games will not go ahead as planned. Veteran Olympic broadcaster – TSN’s Brian Williams told John Moore at Newstalk 1010 in Toronto the IOC is tone deaf on the issue. There’s nothing official from the IOC yet, but Dick Pound has indicated postponement is the preferred option. <<<<<>>>>> So this brings us to the end of day 13 of the COVID-19 pandemic and every day we see a predictable spike in the number of cases being reported in Canada and around the world. And we are reminded that what you and I do, or fail to do, to help curb COVID 19 will be reflected three weeks from now. For some context: Three weeks ago today CANADA had 27 confirmed cases. As of yesterday, that number has grown to more than 14 hundred cases. WHAT ARE YOU DOING TODAY…TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWPOINTS EXPRESSED IN THIS PODCAST REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE HOST AND PARTICIPANTS AS OF THE DATE OF PUBLICATION AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE AND BEST PRACTICES BY LEADING MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AS THE INFORMATION SURROUNDING THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

March 22

Municipalities and health care providers across Canada are calling on the federal and provincial governments to take tougher measures in the fight against COVID1-19 – but the Prime Minister insists the time is not right to invoke the Emergencies Act.

Here’s what you need to know on Sunday, March 22, 2020

Trudeau says Parliament will resume Tuesday to pass emergency measures

Nova Scotia declares state of emergency, identifies 7 more cases of COVID-19 Effective 6 a.m. Monday, the borders of Nova Scotia will be tightened, with screening processes at all points of entry to the province. Anyone who has travelled outside of the province will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return.

Prince Edward Island is also asking anyone who has travelled within Canada to self-isolate for 14 days -- a step beyond the federal government's request to those who have travelled internationally.

Quebec premier announces all shopping malls closed; Schools will remain closed until May 1st.

Hydro-Quebec suspends fees amid COVID-19 pandemic

Canadian Tire reducing store hours, SportChek and Mark's locations to close

The Metropolitan Opera is cancelling the rest of its season and stopping the pay of the orchestra, chorus and other unionized employees at the end of March due to the new coronavirus. The Met last week called off performances through March 31.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has gone into quarantine after being informed that a doctor who administered a vaccine to her has tested positive for the new coronavirus.

Huge crowds defied coronavirus fears – lining up for hours to see the Olympic flame in northern Japan, as reports emerged that organisers of Tokyo 2020 are considering postponement of the games.

<<<<<<>>>>>>

Despite states of emergency being declared by a number of provinces, despite the nearly minute to minute appeal for people to observe physical distancing, to stay home unless it’s necessary for you to buy groceries or go to work, there are increased reports of people gathering in large crowds in close proximity across the country.

It was the subject of the first question from the Prime Minister’s scrum today in Ottawa.

But that stance is frustrating for some municipal and public health leaders who have limited powers to make sure people follow these health and safety measures.

The first call to toughen up came this weekend from doctors in British Columbia.

That’s reporter Ben Miljure at CTV Vancouver.

Frank Scarpitti is the Mayor of Markham, Ontario. He’s adding his voice to the chorus calling on the senior levels of government to definitively shut down all non-essential businesses and public activities.

The House of Commons will convene on Tuesday to pass emergency measures but as noted, the Emergencies Act is not on the agenda.

<<<<<<<>>>>>>>

While Canadian legislatures assemble to vote on emergency support packages to deal with the health and financial effects of the COVID outbreak, the US Congress appears stalled in its efforts to push a bill through the House and Senate.

Washington’s management of the COVID outbreak has criticized by front line healthcare providers and state governors and much of that criticizes stops in the Oval Office.

David Schultz is a professor of political science and constitutional law at Hamline University in Minnesota. He says, despite any effort to the contrary, the COVID-19 pandemic is becoming increasingly politicized in this presidential election year.

<<<<<>>>>>>

So here we are at the end of day 10 of the daily COVID-19 podcast series…and we end with the reminder we’ve heard from public health and government officials again today.

Whatever you and I do or fail to do to help curb COVID-19 will be reflected in the cases and circumstances we’ll face three weeks from now.

What are you doing today…to help flatten the curve?

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast

Municipalities and health care providers across Canada are calling on the federal and provincial governments to take tougher measures in the fight against COVID1-19 – but the Prime Minister insists the time is not right to invoke the Emergencies Act. Here’s what you need to know on Sunday, March 22, 2020 Trudeau says Parliament will resume Tuesday to pass emergency measures Nova Scotia declares state of emergency, identifies 7 more cases of COVID-19 Effective 6 a.m. Monday, the borders of Nova Scotia will be tightened, with screening processes at all points of entry to the province. Anyone who has travelled outside of the province will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return. Prince Edward Island is also asking anyone who has travelled within Canada to self-isolate for 14 days -- a step beyond the federal government's request to those who have travelled internationally. Quebec premier announces all shopping malls closed; Schools will remain closed until May 1st. Hydro-Quebec suspends fees amid COVID-19 pandemic Canadian Tire reducing store hours, SportChek and Mark's locations to close The Metropolitan Opera is cancelling the rest of its season and stopping the pay of the orchestra, chorus and other unionized employees at the end of March due to the new coronavirus. The Met last week called off performances through March 31. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has gone into quarantine after being informed that a doctor who administered a vaccine to her has tested positive for the new coronavirus. Huge crowds defied coronavirus fears – lining up for hours to see the Olympic flame in northern Japan, as reports emerged that organisers of Tokyo 2020 are considering postponement of the games. <<<<<<>>>>>> Despite states of emergency being declared by a number of provinces, despite the nearly minute to minute appeal for people to observe physical distancing, to stay home unless it’s necessary for you to buy groceries or go to work, there are increased reports of people gathering in large crowds in close proximity across the country. It was the subject of the first question from the Prime Minister’s scrum today in Ottawa. But that stance is frustrating for some municipal and public health leaders who have limited powers to make sure people follow these health and safety measures. The first call to toughen up came this weekend from doctors in British Columbia. That’s reporter Ben Miljure at CTV Vancouver. Frank Scarpitti is the Mayor of Markham, Ontario. He’s adding his voice to the chorus calling on the senior levels of government to definitively shut down all non-essential businesses and public activities. The House of Commons will convene on Tuesday to pass emergency measures but as noted, the Emergencies Act is not on the agenda. <<<<<<<>>>>>>> While Canadian legislatures assemble to vote on emergency support packages to deal with the health and financial effects of the COVID outbreak, the US Congress appears stalled in its efforts to push a bill through the House and Senate. Washington’s management of the COVID outbreak has criticized by front line healthcare providers and state governors and much of that criticizes stops in the Oval Office. David Schultz is a professor of political science and constitutional law at Hamline University in Minnesota. He says, despite any effort to the contrary, the COVID-19 pandemic is becoming increasingly politicized in this presidential election year. <<<<<>>>>>> So here we are at the end of day 10 of the daily COVID-19 podcast series…and we end with the reminder we’ve heard from public health and government officials again today. Whatever you and I do or fail to do to help curb COVID-19 will be reflected in the cases and circumstances we’ll face three weeks from now. What are you doing today…to help flatten the curve?

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

We’ll take you into the scrum with Prime Minister Trudeau. We ask why we continue to count COVID-19 cases in Canada now that it’s in the community. AND… Doctors in Italy are warning the world – we need to completely rethink the way we treat COVID patients. Here’s what you need to know on Saturday, March 21, 2020 PM Trudeau not declaring national state of emergency for COVID-19 yet https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/trudeau-not-declaring-national-state-of-emergency-for-covid-19-yet-1.4862715 Former prime minister Stephen Harper will be one of 12 members on the newly formed Economic Recovery Panel in Alberta https://pressreader.com/article/281565177844051 DBRS has downgraded Alberta’s Issuer Rating and Longterm Debt rating due to plunging oil prices and the COVID-19 outbreak. https://pressreader.com/article/281612422484307 FEMA Declares New York a ‘Major Disaster’. Gov. Andrew Cuomo says one million face masks are being sent to hospitals in New York City and another 500,000 to Long Island. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/21/nyregion/coronavirus-new-york-update.html Italian health officials are warning the world to decentralize their approach to treating COVID-19 patients. Hospitals may be the primary source of corona virus transmission. https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/21/coronavirus-plea-from-italy-treat-patients-at-home/ <<<<>>>> When should Canada’s federal government declare a state of emergency? Are Canadians abroad better to isolate in place rather than risk getting caught in quarantines or border closures? These were among the questions Prime Minister Trudeau addressed at his daily briefing. But top of mind was the need to do more testing https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/trudeau-not-declaring-national-state-of-emergency-for-covid-19-yet-1.4862715 <<<<>>>> Italy remains the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic. The healthcare system there is all but overwhelmed by the outbreak. Today, STAT NEWS is reporting that Italian health officials are telling other countries to reconsider how they treat COVID-19. There is a warning to decentralize patient care from hospitals to their homes and make the community a focus of interventions. Doctors in Bergamo say hospitals may well be the main source of COVID-19 transmission. https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/21/coronavirus-plea-from-italy-treat-patients-at-home/ <<<<>>>> The COVID-19 death toll in Canada is 13 to date. 10 of those cases are in British Columbia, 3 are in Ontario. In most cases, public health officials can trace connections to other infections. Such was not the case earlier this week when a 51 year old man died in Halton Region in Ontario with no apparent connections to the virus. Dr. Neil Rau is an Infectious Disease Special. He works at the hospital where that death occurred and it has been difficult for the staff at Milton District Hospital. <<<<>>>> As this pandemic moves into a new phase in this country, it’s worth focusing on the great work that’s being done in public health and by charity and community groups trying to support the marginalized. We keep hear that fear and panic and scare-mongering will be the toughest thing to fight in the coming days and weeks… SO…there are online efforts to promote and boost CARE-mongering. Taking care of ourselves and each other.. Heather Wright at CTV National News says it gaining momentum by the day. https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/you-re-not-alone-in-this-canadians-are-caremongering-through-the-covid-19-pandemic-1.4859369 <<<<>>>> So, we close DAY 9 for this podcast with a reminder that the effects of what you do today to help curb the COVID-19 outbreak will seen and felt three weeks from now. Think back FEBRUARY 29th. What were you doing? Chances are you can’t or you aren’t doing that today. That’s quickly this has changed. IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

What did we learn about COVID-19 in the past week? We learned that hand washing matters. We learned that social distancing matters. We learned that what we do today will have effects three weeks from today. We also learned that some people aren't paying attention. Here’s what you need to know on Friday, March 20th, 2020 Trudeau unveils new measures to mobilize industry in COVID-19 fight, bring Canadians home Trudeau also announced that Canada-U.S. border will close to non-essential travel as of midnight Friday. That means, come Saturday, tourists and visitors will not be allowed in. The US and Mexico will close their common border to non-essential trave at midnight Saturday New protocols for irregular migrants, who will now be turned around if they appear at the Canada-US border, rather than allowing them in and isolating them. Interpol: 121 arrests made in more than 90 countries over counterfeit COVID-19 supplies, medications Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has announced a statewide shelter-in-place order aimed at stopping the spread of coronavirus. California made the same order earlier this week. Walmart Canada says it will hire 10,000 more employees to work in its stores and distribution centres as it deals with issues related to COVID-19. <<<<<<<>>>>>>>> Prime Minister Trudeau says the details have been nailed down – the Canada-US border will be closed to non-essential travel as of midnight Friday. It means no tourists crossing the border but it does mean trade will continue to flow between the two countries. Trudeau says Ottawa will be assisting Canadians who are trying to get home. The PM also made it clear that irregular migrants seeking asylum at the US border will be turned back. Up until now, the migrants have been allowed into Canada and ordered into isolation. The Prime Minister also announced plans to engage the private sector to help stem the COVID-19 outbreak. Trudeau says major businesses and manufacturers have already offered assistance to boost health care and medical supplies. <<<>>> Former federal health Minister Jane Philpott is heading the front lines. Dr. Philpott is answering the call for retired physicians to help with the COVID-19 outbreak. <<<<>>>> A study by Toronto epidemiologists suggests that Canada's largest province could run out of intensive care beds and ventilators by late April, even assuming a sharp drop in the current infection rate. Researchers from the University of Toronto, University Health Network and Sunnybrook Hospital have released a model showing Ontario could run short of machines and space to ventilate very sick patients in just over five weeks. Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott told reporters on Wednesday, the province has adequate supply for the current situation. She then noted the province had ordered 300 more ventilators that it expected to receive shortly and said automotive parts manufacturers are looking to retool their facilities so they can produce ventilators in Ontario. <<<<<<<>>>>>>>> Today…Dr. Dina Kulik answers questions about your kids and COVID-19 If you have questions you’d like us to address, send them along to me through TWITTER @DaveTrafford. <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>> There has been a lot of discussion and some confusion about the development of a COVID-19 vaccine. Associated Press had been reporting that human trials were supposed to begin on Monday of this week. So, where are we? I put that question to Sharon Begley - a senior writer at STAT News. <<<<<<<>>>>>>> As we noted off the top of the podcast, Canadians abroad are being told to get home now. Barrie Shepley is among them. Barrie is the former Canadian Olympic triathlon coach and he has been running his annual training camp in Arizona for elite athletes – including wannabe Olympians. He spoke to me earlier this week from his apartment outside Tucson. He says he and his athletes arrived in Arizona just before Canada and the US started restricting borders and international travel. <<<<<<<>>>>>>>> So, here we are at the end of DAY 8 for our daily podcast…and what have we learned in the last week? We’ve learned that our actions or inactions today will be reflected three weeks from now. Whether its hand washing or closing borders, whatever we do today will come home to roost in the next three weeks. What were you doing three weeks ago today? Me? I was getting ready to host the Weekend Morning Show on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto. I was also preparing to celebrate LEAP DAY – February 29th – performing a house concert with Quisha Wint and Beau Dixon. We were playing music I’d written that celebrates the great Martin Luther King Jr. We wouldn’t be doing that tomorrow..three weeks later. What are you doing today? How will that be reflected three weeks from today? I’d be interested to know… Send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. <<<<<>>>>>>

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

As we enter week two of COVID-19 pandemic Ottawa and Washington are in the process of tightening border and travel restrictions. The Ontario legislature passed emergency measures to support workers who will be affected by the outbreak. Italy's death toll has exceeded China's. Canada's auto makers say they are prepared to provide resources, staff and facilities to help manufacture much needed ventilators. FACT OR FICTION: The coronavirus hangs in the air like an aerosol. We'll bust the myth. How should you talk to your kids about COVID-19? That's one of the FAQs we put to our medical and science experts. AND Pollster John Wright at Dart Insight and Communications has the latest numbers on how Canadians are feeling and coping in the face of the pandemic.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Coming up…The latest measures Ottawa is taking to curb COVID-19. How it’s affecting major manufacturing in North America? How does COVID-19 affect pregnant women? And we’ll have a special ROUND TABLE discussion with Catherine Swift, former President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, and Marketing Strategist Tony Chapman of Tony Chapman Reactions. Here’s what you need to know on Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government will spend up to $82 billion on measures to support the Canadian economy through the COVID-19 pandemic. Trudeau officially announce a temporary closure of the U.S. Canada border to non-essential traffic. Porter Airlines has announced they will be suspending all flights until June 1st. The move takes effect at the end of the business day on Friday, March 20th. Detroit's three automakers have agreed to close all of their factories due to worker fears about the coronavirus. The move by General Motors, Fiat Chrysler and Ford will idle about 150,000 auto workers. EU leaders discuss shutting of borders. EU leaders were debating on a videocall on Tuesday whether to shut down Europe’s external borders and offer economic stimulus as the continent scrambles to contain the quick spread of the disease <<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>> As expected, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau outlined financial relief measures for Canadian workers and businesses to cope with the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trudeau says the federal government package is worth up to $82 billion The PM says there is a specific focus on workers who can’t because of illness or the need to care for others. The package will also support small businesses who will have difficulties making payroll. And Ottawa will extend the time for businesses and individuals who owe taxes to the government. Finance Minister says these relief measures will focus on business and households right actross the country but admits they will need to pay particular attention to the regions of the country that heavily rely on the resource sector to support their economies. <<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>> The Prime Minister also told us that Canada and the US have mutually agreed to temporarily close our border to non-essential travel. President Donald Trump “broke the news” earlier in the morning by announcing the measure on his Twitter account. Parliament will likely be recalled next week. In the meantime, the Prime Minister says his government is still considering whether it needs to invoke the Emergency Measures Act. <<<<<>>>>> Today marks the end of the first full week since the World Health Organization declare COVID-19 to be a pandemic.. I know…feels like a long week. And all indications are we’ve got plenty of long weeks ahead of us. So, let’s take the pulse shall we? Time for a Round Table discussion with Catherine Swift, the former President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Indpendent Business, and Tony Chapman - marketing strategist with Tony Chapman Reactions and they joined me this afternoon by video conferencing. IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford. Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts…And that will guarantee - I’ll be back tomorrow. Thanks for joining us.. I’m DT.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Here’s what you need to know on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Ontario declares a STATE OF EMERGENCY in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alberta declares a state of public health emergency. Alberta’s COVID-19 website receives 300,000 visits Ontario may have its first COVID-19 related death. Anxiety rising in Canada according to the latest polls PM Trudeau says emergency measures are under consideration Shoppers Drug Mart gives seniors exclusive hour to shop amid COVID-19 panic buying Five US states have postponed voting in the 2020 Democratic Primaries AMAZON OVERWHELMED, DELAYS SOME DELIVERIES <<<<<<>>>>>> Late this afternoon, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney made an announcement declaring a state of public health emergency. It includes a ban on any organized gatherings of more than 50 people. Albertans are now prohibited from visiting a number of venues including: public recreation centres, casinos, bingo halls, bars, nightclubs, fitness centres, arenas, museums, and indoor children's play centres. Sit-down restaurants, pubs, delis and coffee shops are now limited to a maximum of 50 people or 50 per cent of their maximum capacity, whichever is lower. The declaration comes under the province's Public Health Act which typically permits a 30-day period for the state of emergency, which can be extended to 90 days. <<<<<<<>>>>>>>> Meanwhile, Alberta’s COVID-19 website has received more than 300,000 visits. It’s a new tool to self-assess for the coronavirus - launched in Alberta to reduce the strain on Health Link 811 call volumes, which have more than doubled in recent days. The online service is the first of its kind in Canada and helps people determine whether to call Health Link 811 and get tested for COVID-19. The online questionnaire asks what symptoms, if any, someone is experiencing and takes the user through steps to determine whether testing is needed. <<<<<<>>>>>>> Ontario may have its first COVID-19 related death. The province’s health minister Christine Elliott says a man who tested positive for the corona virus has died but it’s not yet clear whether COVID-19 was the cause of death. There are now 190 COVID-19 cases in Ontario. Twelve new cases were reported today. That’s down considerably from the 74 new cases that were reported between Saturday and Monday. <<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>> Two new polls confirm what many of us already know…Canadians are stressed by the pandemic and many agree the worst is yet to come. The Angus Reid Institute reports half of those surveyed fear the illness will severely harm someone close to them; 65% worry about their personal finances amid chaotic markets <<<<<<<<>>>>>>> Markets in the US responded with a favourable bounce – the Dow Jones finishing up more than 1000 points after the White House unveiled its $850 billion relief package. We may get a sense of the financial measures Ottawa will be taking when we hear from the Prime Minister on Wednesday. Today, Prime Minister Trudeau says he’s considering a recall of Parliament . Trudeau says there will be legislation that makes it easier for the government to get EI cheques out the door…and they’ll explore options under the federal Emergency Measures Act <<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>> The challenges posed by self-isolation, by school closures and the chaos as some retailers and grocery stores has meant more of us are turning to Amazon to deliver our goods and groceries to our door. And that has stressed Amazon’s capacity. So much so that Jay Carney at Amazon tells CNN, the company is prepared to hire 100 thousand new workers. <<<<<<<<>>>>>>> IF YOU HAVE A STORY ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE OR A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Here’s what you need to know on Monday, March 16, 2020 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced the borders will be closed to non-citizens or permanent residents. Americans citizens, flight crews and diplomats are exempt. British Columbia is reporting three additional deaths from COVID-19, all of them related to a care home in North Vancouver.That brings Canada’s national death toll to 4.The only other death in Canada was in B.C. – also at the Lynn Valley Care Centre in North Vancouver where there has been a cluster of cases. Ontario’s government is drafting legislation that would change the Employment Standards Act, and help people directly affected by COVID-19. Employees would also not be required to provide a doctor's note if they need leave from work. Major League Baseball has pushed back opening day until mid-May at the earliest because of the new coronavirus after the federal government recommended restricting events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks. Restaurant Brands International Inc. says it is asking Canadian Tim Hortons restaurant owners to provide take-out, drive-thru and delivery only in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The company says it is closing all dining room seating effective Tuesday. The closures will continue until future notice. Medical schools in the UK have been urged to fast-track final-year medical students, waiving requirements for clinical exams and using alternative assessments to enable them to be quickly registered as doctors in order to help tackle the coronavirus outbr The Associated Press is reporting: A clinical trial to evaluate a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin on Monday. The report cites an unnamed U.S. government official. The trial is being funded by the National Institutes of Health Research Institute in Seattle. <<<<<>>>>> And coming up… Are you ready to work at home? And how are your kids coping with the COVID-19 crisis? We’ll put some of your FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS to our medical and science experts <<<<<<>>>>>>> The big news of the day came from Ottawa where the Prime Minister announced new measures to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Justin Trudeau met the media at a distance because he remains in self-isolation at his official residence. The new measure effectively close Canada’s borders to most foreign travelers. But the PM stressed that only travelers who have been properly screened will be allowed into the country – Canadians included. In addition, anyone arriving from international locations will still be expected to self-isolate for 14 days. Only four Canadian airports will accept International flights as of Wednesday <<<<<>>>>> Ontario is opening 17 designated testing centres in an effort to relieve pressures on provincial hospitals. The Premier also announced his government’s intention to pass legislation that will protest and support workers directly affected by COVID-19 Premier Ford also stressed the need for people to refrain from panic buying at local grocery stores. Ford says major retailers have assured him that supply chain is healthy. There will be product on the shelves. <<<<<<<<>>>>>>>> The flurry of research activity is astounding. We told you about a Cambridge Mass. firm that is trying fast track human testing of vaccine… Today, Associated Press is reporting that human trials were supposed to begin today at a facility in Seattle Washington. Meanwhile…some international intrigue over who will get access to a vaccine once it’s developed. Berlin is trying to stop Washington from persuading a German company seeking a coronavirus vaccine to move its research to the U.S. That’s prompted German politicians to insist no country should have a monopoly on any future vaccine. German government sources told Reuters on Sunday that the U.S. administration was looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by a German firm, Curevac. Earlier, German newspaper reported that U.S. President Donald Trump had offered funds to lure Curevac to the United States, and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to stay. Responding on Twitter to the report, the U.S. ambassador to Germany said the newspaper story was “wrong.” Welt am Sonntag quoted an unidentified German government source as saying Trump was trying to secure the scientists’ work exclusively, and would do anything to get a vaccine for the United States, “but only for the United States.” German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer told a news conference that the government’s coronavirus crisis committee would discuss the Curevac case on Monday. <<<<<<<>>>>>>>>

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Here’s what you need to know on SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2020. Prime Minister Trudeau tells CTV’s Evan Solomon his government is considering all options, that includes shutting down the border to international travellers and implementing mandatory self-isolation. The Federal Reserve in Washington has slashed interest rates to 0.25% in an effort to buoy the US economy. Canada's Chief Public Health Officer recommends all Canadians cancel non-essential travel plans to leave the country in a bid to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Via Rail has announced it will be reducing some of it services as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Quebec Premier François Legault ordered the closure of gathering places such as bars, theatres, gyms and movie theatres on March 15 as the province brought in more aggressive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) says all elective surgery and non-essential care will be put on hold temporarily as the province directs its efforts towards battling COVID-19. The Ontario government is planning to table a bill aimed at helping workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.The new bill will direct employers to offer protected leave for people affected by the pandemic. The number of cases of COVID-19 in Italy has surged higher again. Some 3,590 more cases of the coronavirus were reported in a 24-hour period, nearly 100 more than the increase as the day before. <<<<>>>>> The Prime Minister remains in self-isolation at his official residence in Ottawa but step outdoors this afternoon to do a remote interview with Evan Solomon on CTV’s Question Period. The PM tells Solomon he’s feeling well, showing no symptoms of COVID-19 and has been busy at work – albeit alone… Trudeau and his cabinet held a rare Sunday meeting specifically to deal with the COVID-crisis and he says all ideas, all actions, all options are up for consideration. You can hear the full interview with Evan and the Prime Minister in our OUTBREAK – EXTRA! Covid-19 Podcast. <<<<>>>>> The mayor of Canada’s largest city remains in self-isolation. John Tory made that decision this past Friday after public health officials advised everyone who had recently traveled abroad to self-isolate. Tory had just returned to Toronto from a business mission in the UK. The mayor isn’t quite pacing the cage…managing to stay busy with the city’s affairs. He says his pantry is full and even the neighbours are pitching in to support him. <<<<<<>>>>> Some research news to share with you…. STAT NEWS reports People who contract the novel coronavirus emit high amounts of virus very early on in their infection, according to a new study from Germany that helps to explain the rapid and efficient way in which the virus has spread around the world. At the same time, the study suggests that while people with mild infections can still test positive by throat swabs for days and even weeks after their illness, those who are only mildly sick are likely not still infectious by about 10 days after they start to experience symptoms The GUARDIAN is reporting on a study that suggests the number of COVID-19 cases could have been cut by 66% if China had acted a week earlier. Sophisticated modelling of the outbreak suggests that China had 114,325 cases by the end of February 2020, a figure that would have been 67 times higher without interventions such as early detection, isolation of the infected, and travel restrictions. But if the interventions could have been brought in a week earlier, 66% fewer people would have been infected, the analysis found. The same measures brought in three weeks earlier could have reduced cases by 95%. <<<<<<>>>>>> And FINALLY… We want to share a “good news” story that has come out of this crisis. The public health focus has been to make sure we protect others from becoming infected. Hence, the ongoing instructions to wash our hands and sneeze or cough into our elbows. Taking care of ourselves is important. But what about taking care of others? Saijal Patel lives in Waterdown Ontario. She observed elder residents in her community who were having difficulties simply navigating the local grocery store. Some were worried about being in a crowded store, others were just intimidated by the chaos of the bulk buyers. So she’s posted a suggestion on her social media sites calling on grocers to make special accommodations for seniors so they can get what they need to get through this pandemic. <<<<<<>>>>> IF YOU HAVE A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

March 15 COVID-19 Podcast EXTRA - CTV's Evan Solomon with Prime Minister Trudeau

This episode features an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

On Sunday, March 15th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told CTV’s Evan Solomon that the federal government is "not taking anything off the table" when it comes to additional measures to combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Options include shutting down the border to international travellers and implementing mandatory self-isolation.

The prime minister says all possibilities are on the agenda of a rare Sunday meeting of the federal cabinet.

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/shutting-the-border-and-mandatory-covid-19-isolation-trudeau-says-nothing-s-off-the-table-1.4853805

OUTBREAK: COVID-19 Podcast EXTRA - CTV's Evan Solomon with Prime Minister Trudeau

This episode features an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

On Sunday, March 15th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told CTV’s Evan Solomon that the federal government is "not taking anything off the table" when it comes to additional measures to combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Options include shutting down the border to international travellers and implementing mandatory self-isolation.

The prime minister says all possibilities are on the agenda of a rare Sunday meeting of the federal cabinet.

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/shutting-the-border-and-mandatory-covid-19-isolation-trudeau-says-nothing-s-off-the-table-1.4853805

The COVID-19 Podcast EXTRA - CTV's Evan Solomon with Prime Minister Trudeau

This episode features an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. On Sunday, March 15th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told CTV’s Evan Solomon that the federal government is "not taking anything off the table" when it comes to additional measures to combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Options include shutting down the border to international travellers and implementing mandatory self-isolation. The prime minister says all possibilities are on the agenda of a rare Sunday meeting of the federal cabinet. https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/shutting-the-border-and-mandatory-covid-19-isolation-trudeau-says-nothing-s-off-the-table-1.4853805

OUTBREAK: the COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is your on-demand audio source of information relevant to your needs, questions and concerns about the corona virus and COVID-19. We hope it will serve as your daily reset on the developments that effect Canada and the world.

Here’s what you need to know on Saturday, March 14, 2020

Is there a vaccine that’s ready for humans?
Ottawa is urging Canadians abroad to come home while they can still travel
Washington expands its travel ban to include the UK and Ireland..
Saudi Arabia halts all international flights into the kingdom for the next two weeks.
Denmark is closing its borders to travelers until April 13
Prince Edward Island confirms its first COVID-19 case.
Ontario’s total number of cases is now at 101. BC added 9 cases today bringing the confirmed total to 73.
NBA players and teams step up an pay it forward helping workers affected by the basketball shutdown cover lost wages

AND…we will have answers to your latest FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about COVID-19

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Francois Phiippe Champagne took to TWITTER on Saturday warning that commercial travel options may become increasingly limited in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Minister’s advice comes as several countries around the world impose strict entry and quarantine requirements, restrict large gatherings and in some cases, close their borders.

Canada’s public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam has already warned people who travel abroad – they could get caught up in travel bans or quarantines in other countries.

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/return-home-while-you-can-ottawa-tells-canadians-as-covid-19-continues-to-spread-1.4853167

<<<<>>>>>

The Province of Ontario is rolling out a $10 million ad campaign aimed at raising awareness about the COVID-19 outbreak. The broadcast, print and digital campaign will include advice from public health officials, travel restrictions and COVID-19 signs and symptoms.

https://www.iheartradio.ca/newstalk-1010/news/ontario-stepping-up-campaign-for-covid-19-awareness-1.10755345

<<<<<>>>>>

The campaign comes the same day the province added 22 new confirmed cases bringing the total to 101. So far, 5 patients have recovered. Ontario is investigating another 939 possible cases.

That number would include players and staff from the NBA Raptors organization.

They underwent testing this week after a player from the UTAH JAZZ tested positive for the virus. So far…so good. All the initial tests have come back negative. One test is still pending.

The players and staffers remain in self-isolation.

https://www.iheartradio.ca/newstalk-1010/news/ontario-confirms-22-new-cases-of-covid-19-1.10757191

<<<<<<<>>>>>>>

In Quebec, the health ministry is allowing some health-care consultations to happen over the phone…

And both Quebec and BC are reaching out to retired health-care workers to help staff hospitals and clinics…

BC’s Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry says the province is getting ready to open dedicating testing centres and that’s going to put pressure on current staffing levels..

https://bc.ctvnews.ca/b-c-government-asking-retired-doctors-nurses-to-come-back-to-work-1.4852883

<<<<>>>>>

There is a long list of cancellations of events and programs across the country. The biggest announcement on Saturday came from the desk of David Mirvish of Mirvish Productions. All Mirvish Shows including Come From Away and Hamilton have been postponed.

But most people will be affected by municipalities that have decided to close rec centres, arenas, libraries and march break camps.

Markham Ontario’s Mayor Frank Scarpitti realizes this is an inconvenience for many families but this is an easy way for us to ensure we help avoid overwhelming hospital and ER staff.

<<<<<>>>>>

In Washington….the Trump administration announced it will extend its travel ban to now include the UK and Ireland. The restrictions will begin next week.

The President also told reporters he’d been tested for COVID-19, his temperature is normal and the test results are expected in a day or so.

He also detailed some of the initiatives Congress has passed to support Americans affected by the pandemic.

<<<<>>>>>

Yesterday, we told you about a Cambridge, Massachusetts firm that claims to have developed a vaccine. STAT NEWS has reported that researchers are preparing to rush it into production…without doing the regular testing on animals.

Eric Boodman did the reporting on this story. He spoke to us from his home in Boston.

https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/11/researchers-rush-to-start-moderna-coronavirus-vaccine-trial-without-usual-animal-testing/

<<<<>>>>>>

And FINALLY….some GOOD NEWS amid all of this worry and concern…

NBA players and teams have stepped forward….to pay it forward. The basketball season’s been suspended for at least 30 days…and that’s put extraordinary financial pressures on hourly paid and seasonal workers at arenas throughout the league.

Owners and all-stars have said they are preparing to donate cash to cover the help cover the lost income of everyday arena employees while the league goes dark

<<<<>>>>>

IF YOU HAVE A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

Here’s what you need to know on Saturday, March 14, 2020 Is there a vaccine that’s ready for humans? Ottawa is urging Canadians abroad to come home while they can still travel Washington expands its travel ban to include the UK and Ireland.. Saudi Arabia halts all international flights into the kingdom for the next two weeks. Denmark is closing its borders to travelers until April 13 Prince Edward Island confirms its first COVID-19 case. Ontario’s total number of cases is now at 101. BC added 9 cases today bringing the confirmed total to 73. NBA players and teams step up an pay it forward helping workers affected by the basketball shutdown cover lost wages AND…we will have answers to your latest FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about COVID-19 Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Francois Phiippe Champagne took to TWITTER on Saturday warning that commercial travel options may become increasingly limited in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Minister’s advice comes as several countries around the world impose strict entry and quarantine requirements, restrict large gatherings and in some cases, close their borders. Canada’s public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam has already warned people who travel abroad – they could get caught up in travel bans or quarantines in other countries. https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/return-home-while-you-can-ottawa-tells-canadians-as-covid-19-continues-to-spread-1.4853167 <<<<>>>>> The Province of Ontario is rolling out a $10 million ad campaign aimed at raising awareness about the COVID-19 outbreak. The broadcast, print and digital campaign will include advice from public health officials, travel restrictions and COVID-19 signs and symptoms. https://www.iheartradio.ca/newstalk-1010/news/ontario-stepping-up-campaign-for-covid-19-awareness-1.10755345 <<<<<>>>>> The campaign comes the same day the province added 22 new confirmed cases bringing the total to 101. So far, 5 patients have recovered. Ontario is investigating another 939 possible cases. That number would include players and staff from the NBA Raptors organization. They underwent testing this week after a player from the UTAH JAZZ tested positive for the virus. So far…so good. All the initial tests have come back negative. One test is still pending. The players and staffers remain in self-isolation. https://www.iheartradio.ca/newstalk-1010/news/ontario-confirms-22-new-cases-of-covid-19-1.10757191 <<<<<<<>>>>>>> In Quebec, the health ministry is allowing some health-care consultations to happen over the phone… And both Quebec and BC are reaching out to retired health-care workers to help staff hospitals and clinics… BC’s Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry says the province is getting ready to open dedicating testing centres and that’s going to put pressure on current staffing levels.. https://bc.ctvnews.ca/b-c-government-asking-retired-doctors-nurses-to-come-back-to-work-1.4852883 <<<<>>>>> There is a long list of cancellations of events and programs across the country. The biggest announcement on Saturday came from the desk of David Mirvish of Mirvish Productions. All Mirvish Shows including Come From Away and Hamilton have been postponed. But most people will be affected by municipalities that have decided to close rec centres, arenas, libraries and march break camps. Markham Ontario’s Mayor Frank Scarpitti realizes this is an inconvenience for many families but this is an easy way for us to ensure we help avoid overwhelming hospital and ER staff. <<<<<>>>>> In Washington….the Trump administration announced it will extend its travel ban to now include the UK and Ireland. The restrictions will begin next week. The President also told reporters he’d been tested for COVID-19, his temperature is normal and the test results are expected in a day or so. He also detailed some of the initiatives Congress has passed to support Americans affected by the pandemic. <<<<>>>>> Yesterday, we told you about a Cambridge, Massachusetts firm that claims to have developed a vaccine. STAT NEWS has reported that researchers are preparing to rush it into production…without doing the regular testing on animals. Eric Boodman did the reporting on this story. He spoke to us from his home in Boston. https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/11/researchers-rush-to-start-moderna-coronavirus-vaccine-trial-without-usual-animal-testing/ <<<<>>>>>> And FINALLY….some GOOD NEWS amid all of this worry and concern… NBA players and teams have stepped forward….to pay it forward. The basketball season’s been suspended for at least 30 days…and that’s put extraordinary financial pressures on hourly paid and seasonal workers at arenas throughout the league. Owners and all-stars have said they are preparing to donate cash to cover the help cover the lost income of everyday arena employees while the league goes dark <<<<>>>>> IF YOU HAVE A GOOD NEWS COMMUNITY STORY YOU WANT TO SHARE…send me an email. DAVE@DAVETRAFFORD.COM or connect with me on TWITTER @DaveTrafford.

OUTBREAK: The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford Ep.1 March 13, 2020

This is your on-demand audio source of information relevant to your needs, questions and concerns about the corona virus and COVID-19. We hope it will serve as your daily reset on the developments that effect Canada and the world

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is your on-demand audio source of information relevant to your needs, questions and concerns about the corona virus and COVID-19. We hope it will serve as your daily reset on the developments that effect Canada and the world.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Prime Minister Trudeau announced a suite of measures designed to help Canadians cope with this pandemic – including financial support for those affected by the virus.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau followed Trudeau’s announcement by announcing a “credit facility program” making $10 billion available in financial assistance to support Canadian business and to stimulate the economy.

https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/avoid-global-travel-financial-help-coming-trudeau-says-as-covid-19-shuts-down-parliament-1.4851638

Ontario added 19 more cases of COVID-19 on Friday. It’s the largest single day increase the province has experienced to date. Ontario now has 79 confirmed cases. It’s important to note that Ontario has conducted more than 51 hundred tests, nearly 45 hundred have been negative and there are nearly 600 cases that are under investigation.>

https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/19-new-confirmed-cases-of-covid-19-in-ontario-bringing-provincial-total-to-79-1.4851762

Quebec has taken steps to close daycares, elementary schools, high schools CEGEPS and universities. The province says it has 17 cases and two of those patients are in hospital. https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/covid-19-quebec-to-close-all-daycares-schools-cegeps-and-universities-for-at-least-two-weeks-1.4851790

Nova Scotia is requiring all public sector employees who travel outside Canada to self- isolate for 14 days before returning to work. Premier Stephen McNeil also announced that any student or child in daycare who travels outside the country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to class or daycare. NS has yet to identify a single active case of COVID-19. So far 226 lab tests have returned negative.

https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/nova-scotia-putting-extra-measures-in-place-to-prevent-covid-19-1.4851648

A team of researchers from McMaster University in Hamilton, the University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto has managed to isolate the virus that causes COVID-19. https://sunnybrook.ca/research/media/item.asp?c=2&i=2069&f=covid-19-isolated-2020

STAT NEWS is reporting that a Cambridge, Mass. based biotech company has already produced a COVID-19 VACCINE. But it comes with a warning. The researchers aren’t waiting to see whether the vaccine works in animals…before trying it on humans.https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/11/researchers-rush-to-start-moderna-coronavirus-vaccine-trial-without-usual-animal-testing/

According to BLOOMBERG, Doctors in Wuhan China say they’ve noticed patients with high blood pressure appear to be at higher risk of dying from the virus.

Nearly half of the Wuhan patients who died in January had hypertension.

Du Bin is quoted in the story. He’s the director of the ICU at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. He says “Though there is no research published on that yet, we believe hypertension could be an important factor in causing patients to deteriorate, leading to a bad prognosis.”

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-09/top-virus-doctor-says-high-blood-pressure-is-major-death-risk?srnd=premium-asia

The COVID-19 Daily Podcast with Dave Trafford

This is your on-demand audio source of information relevant to your needs, questions and concerns about the corona virus and COVID-19. We hope it will serve as your daily reset on the developments that effect Canada and the world. IN THIS EPISODE: Prime Minister Trudeau announced a suite of measures designed to help Canadians cope with this pandemic – including financial support for those affected by the virus. Finance Minister Bill Morneau followed Trudeau’s announcement by announcing a “credit facility program” making $10 billion available in financial assistance to support Canadian business and to stimulate the economy. https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/avoid-global-travel-financial-help-coming-trudeau-says-as-covid-19-shuts-down-parliament-1.4851638 Ontario added 19 more cases of COVID-19 on Friday. It’s the largest single day increase the province has experienced to date. Ontario now has 79 confirmed cases. It’s important to note that Ontario has conducted more than 51 hundred tests, nearly 45 hundred have been negative and there are nearly 600 cases that are under investigation.> https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/19-new-confirmed-cases-of-covid-19-in-ontario-bringing-provincial-total-to-79-1.4851762 Quebec has taken steps to close daycares, elementary schools, high schools CEGEPS and universities. The province says it has 17 cases and two of those patients are in hospital. https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/covid-19-quebec-to-close-all-daycares-schools-cegeps-and-universities-for-at-least-two-weeks-1.4851790 Nova Scotia is requiring all public sector employees who travel outside Canada to self- isolate for 14 days before returning to work. Premier Stephen McNeil also announced that any student or child in daycare who travels outside the country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to class or daycare. NS has yet to identify a single active case of COVID-19. So far 226 lab tests have returned negative. https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/nova-scotia-putting-extra-measures-in-place-to-prevent-covid-19-1.4851648 A team of researchers from McMaster University in Hamilton, the University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto has managed to isolate the virus that causes COVID-19. https://sunnybrook.ca/research/media/item.asp?c=2&i=2069&f=covid-19-isolated-2020 STAT NEWS is reporting that a Cambridge, Mass. based biotech company has already produced a COVID-19 VACCINE. But it comes with a warning. The researchers aren’t waiting to see whether the vaccine works in animals…before trying it on humans.https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/11/researchers-rush-to-start-moderna-coronavirus-vaccine-trial-without-usual-animal-testing/ According to BLOOMBERG, Doctors in Wuhan China say they’ve noticed patients with high blood pressure appear to be at higher risk of dying from the virus. Nearly half of the Wuhan patients who died in January had hypertension. Du Bin is quoted in the story. He’s the director of the ICU at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. He says “Though there is no research published on that yet, we believe hypertension could be an important factor in causing patients to deteriorate, leading to a bad prognosis.” https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-09/top-virus-doctor-says-high-blood-pressure-is-major-death-risk?srnd=premium-asia

Global Outbreak: The Facts and Fiction of COVID-19 (part 2)

Bill Carroll and a panel of experts answer your questions and concerns about COVID-19. The panel of experts include Dr. Barry Dworkin, a family doctor in Ottawa, Steve Joordens, Psychology Professor at University of Toronto and Dan Riskin, Bell Media science expert