Ontario's Premier has announced a state of emergency.
Doug Ford's announcement just moments ago at Queen's Park means all restaurants and bars in the province will close with the exception of take-out food and delivery.
All organized public events over 50 people are prohibited effective immediately.
While making the solemn announcement Doug Ford insisted this is not a 'provincial shutdown.'
"Groceries, convenience stores, pharmacies, manufacturing facilities, public transit, important public services, construction sites, office buildings, will all continue to operate."
The closures will be in effect until March 31st.
Ford also announced a $300 million emergency relief fund.
The province will be opening 500 more post-acute care beds, setting up 25 more COVID-19 assessment centres, and purchasing more masks and gloves for health care workers.
So far health officials have confirmed 177 cases of the virus in Ontario, though five so far are considered 'resolved.'
Yesterday we learned of a third case of COVID-19 in Niagara involving a man who had recently travelled to Europe.
Closures