Toronto reports 20 new cases of COVID-19, Ontario reports fewest cases in over a week
TORONTO, ON. July 4, 2020 — Today, the City of Toronto says there are 14,568 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 20 cases since yesterday compared to 71 the previous day and 77 the day before that. There are 180 people hospitalized, with 42 in ICU. In total, 12,700 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 63 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 1,104 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto.
“I continue to be encouraged by the steady decrease in our cases in our city, said Dr. Eillen de Villa in her most recent press statement. “This is a direct result of our collective hard work,” said Dr. de Villa.
Meanwhile, the province of Ontario reported its lowest number in more than a week saying that there were 121 new instances of the virus confirmed on Friday, which is the lowest number in any 24-hour period since 111 cases were reported back on June 26. There were also another five deaths reported in people who have contracted COVID-19, bringing the province’s total COVID-19 death toll to 2,687.
As of Monday, July 6, Toronto Public Health says it will be reporting Toronto COVID-19 case numbers only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays only. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.
Provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. Yesterday, the City received 85 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing. Officers spoke to or cautioned more than 1,200 people this month. Bylaw officers issued 11 tickets yesterday in City parks or squares.
As COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community, residents visiting a beach or park must practise physical distancing and avoid crowding. Residents are reminded that bonfires, the consumption of alcohol and littering are not permitted in parks, beaches or public spaces. If a litter bin is full, residents are asked to take their garbage with them so it can be disposed of properly.
A Heat Warning remains in effect for Toronto. Extreme heat is associated with negative health impacts ranging from heat stress to heat stroke and death. During periods of hot weather, the safety of all residents is the priority. The City has opened 15 Emergency Cooling Centres (ECCs) for the duration of the Heat Warning. An interactive map is available to help those who need to locate an Emergency Cooling Centre near them. Malvern Recreation Community Centre remains closed due to air conditioning issues. The cooling centre has relocated to Burrows Hall Community Centre (1081 Progress Ave, Scarborough) until the issue is resolved. Tips to protect yourself from the heat are available at toronto.ca/keepcool.
The City of Toronto advises those heading outside to enjoy the weather this weekend to adhere to Toronto Public Health’s advice to wash hands often, stay within their social circle of no more than 10 people, avoid crowds, practise physical distancing, and wear a face covering or mask in all indoor public spaces.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures. Check toronto.ca/covid-19 for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
