It's been nearly a full week since the province has reported a single positive case of COVID-19. As of 9:30 a.m. today, (May 17), no new cases of the novel coronavirus have been identified in Manitoba.

The total number of lab-confirmed positive and probable positive cases in Manitoba is 289.

Two individuals are currently hospitalized, with one individual in intensive care.

There are currently 25 active cases in Manitoba and 257 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19.

The number of deaths due to COVID-19 remains at seven.

As of Saturday, May 16, an additional 762 laboratory tests were performed. This brings the total number of tests performed since early February in our province to 34,715.

Public health officials reiterate the importance that while some gradual lifting of restrictions has begun, significant work to limit the spread of COVID-19 must continue. If you travel for camping or to the cottage, you are reminded to take steps to maintain social distancing. Manitobans are reminded that travel is not permitted from southern Manitoba to areas north of the 53rd parallel, including campgrounds. This is essentially anywhere north of the northern end of Lake Winnipeg.

Manitobans experiencing COVID-19 symptoms no longer require a referral from Health Links-Info Sante or their family physician before heading to a community site for COVID-19 testing.

Many community testing sites remain open as regularly scheduled today.

For Victoria Day, a number of testing locations will be open, including the location in Winkler. For up-to-date information on testing criteria and community screening sites, visit: manitoba.ca/covid19/locations.html.