COVID-19 Updates Across Canada

Since our last newsletter, here are some of the recent news and updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada that may be of interest to you. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is current as of October 8th.

Canada

• The federal government signed an agreement with Abbott Rapid Diagnostics to get rapid COVID-19 tests.
• Legislation was introduced on three new recovery benefits for Canadians that continue to require financial supports.
• On October 5th, the federal government began accepting applications for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB).
• Non-essential travel restrictions at the Canada-US border have been extended until October 21, 2020.
• The federal government announced funding to support child care in
  • Alberta
  • British Columbia
  • New Brunswick
  • Nova Scotia
  • Prince Edward Island
• The COVID-19 Alert App, which was first launched in Ontario, is now available in:
  • Manitoba
  • New Brunswick
  • Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Prince Edward Island
  • Quebec
  • Saskatchewan

Alberta

• Alberta is moving to targeted COVID-19 testing.
• Limited COVID-19 testing is now available at the Consort Hospital and Care Centre.
• Albertans can now access free, online mental health services.

Nova Scotia

• Access to virtual care is being extended.

Ontario

• Ontario will begin working on clearing surgery backlogs created because of COVID-19 closures.
• Select pharmacies in Ontario now offer COVID-19 testing by appointment.
• Guidelines for getting a COVID-19 test in Ontario have been updated and public health measures have been enhanced.
• The proposed Helping Tenants and Small Businesses Act, 2020 will look to freeze rent increases in 2021 and provide rent relief to tenants if passed.
• Guidelines for COVID-19 screening for schools and child care have been updated.

Prince Edward Island

• The Charlottetown COVID-19 testing clinic will be moving to a new location.
• The Telework Adaptation Fund is available for businesses and non-profits organizations that have had to work from home due to COVID-19.
• Islanders who must leave the Atlantic bubble can now apply to work-isolate.

Yukon

• The Yukon Business Relief Program has been extended until March 31, 2021.