Alberta has closed K to 12 schools starting immediately until further notice in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
As well, all licensed child care facilities, out-of-school care programs and preschool programs are closed indefinitely. The faith exemption has been removed from the province's ban on gatherings of more than 250 people.
“The new cases that have emerged today, particularly those demonstrating transmission into communities and school settings, means we need to put in place additional restrictions for schools, day cares, continuing care facilities, and worship gatherings,” said Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health. “These decisions are not made lightly, and I know they will have a tremendous impact on Albertans’ day-to-day lives, particularly parents, children, and seniors. But it is crucial we do everything possible to contain and limit the spread of COVID-19.”
Manitoba is closing its schools from March 23 until April 13. Ontario is closing schools from March 14 to April 5.
Saskatchewan has said it plans to keep schools open.
