In Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s wife Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau has tested positive for Novel Corona virus. His office said in a statement issued yesterday that she would remain in isolation and her symptoms were mild, while assuring the public that the Canadian Prime Minister is fine. The statement said, the Prime Minister would also be in isolation for two weeks and on the advice of his doctors, will not be tested for the virus.

The PM would continue his duties, his office said and would address the country tomorrow.

It follows several provinces in Canada, which so far has reported nearly 150 cases in six states and one death unveiling stricter measures to combat the spread of the virus while sporting events and entertainment galas were cancelled.

Mr Trudeau held several meetings over the phone yesterday, including with the special cabinet committee on COVID-19, his office said and also spoke with the leaders of Italy, the US and Britain.He will talk with indigenous leaders today, as well as provincial and territorial premiers to coordinate Canada’s response to the virus, and limit the economic impact on the country.

Since the Novel Corona virus first emerged in late December 2019, more than 130,000 cases have been recorded in 116 countries and territories, killing at least 4,900 people, according to AFP news agency.

Most of Canada’s cases have been traced to China, Iran, Italy or Egypt, but seven people who recently returned from the US also tested positive, public health authorities said.

A ban on indoor gatherings of more than 250 people was also announced, with Montreal’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade, held since 1824, postponed. Alberta and British Columbia announced bans on large gatherings too. Quebec, which has 13 confirmed cases of the virus, is also considering placing the entire island of Montreal — a population of nearly two million under quarantine.

In neighbouring Ontario, public health officials announced the public schools would be shut until 5th of April.

The Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television cancelled this year’s Canadian Screen Awards, scheduled to air on 29th of March and the country’s Juno music awards, planned for Sunday, were also scrapped.