Ontario confirms 446 new COVID-19 cases, 17 more deaths

By News Staff, The Canadian Press

Ontario confirmed 446 new cases of novel coronavirus on Tuesday, marking an increase from the 404 cases reported yesterday.

Seventeen more people have died, bringing the total death count to 2,293.

Of the 2,293 total deaths, 1,465 were in long-term care, Public Health Ontario reports. The Ministry of Long-Term Care reports that 1,652 people who have died were in long-term care – a discrepancy attributed to a lag in reported deaths.

The number of outbreaks in long-term care facilities dropped from 112 to 105.

The provincial total of confirmed cases now stands at 28,709 with 78.3 per cent considered resolved.

There were 15,244 tests completed in the previous day, the second day in a row the province did not meet its goal of 16,000 a day amid a push to increase testing levels.

The patient ombudsman’s office announced today that it is launching an investigation after it received 150 complaints about long-term care homes, coming a day after the provincial ombudsman announced a similar probe.

Ontario is also expected today to extend its state of emergency until June 30.

The measure bans gatherings larger than five people.

It also orders the closure of some businesses such as restaurants and bars, except if they offer takeout or delivery.

If the vote passes, the measure — which had been set to expire today — will be extended for another 28 days.

Independent legislator Randy Hillier has said he will vote against the measure, saying it gives the government too much authority.

Ontario declared a state of emergency on March 17 as COVID-19 cases began to climb in the province.

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