COVID-19 INFECTIONS EASE; OFFICIALS WARN OF COMPLACENCY

While the soaring rate of new COVID-19 infections has moderated substantially across the country in recent weeks because of anti-pandemic restrictions, health authorities warned against complacency. Lockdowns and other restrictions appear to have had a significant effect in curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus, and strong measures need to stay in place, the Public Health Agency of Canada said. “We are observing a steady decline in COVID-19 activity,” the agency said. “With still-elevated daily case counts, the risk remains that trends could reverse quickly.” The agency also noted the emergence of new variants, with eight provinces now reporting finding new strains. The pandemic has caused angst in Newfoundland and Labrador, where an outbreak in the St. John's region has erupted.