Nearly 200 Saskatchewan physicians have written an open letter to the business community in the province.
They are asking all businesses to close their doors to prevent the COVID-19 virus from spreading.
In the letter, they say the recently declared state of emergency by the province has resulted in the obligatory closure of high-risk businesses such as gyms, fitness centres, casinos and bingo halls, but the doctors say that doesn’t go far enough.
They are calling on all businesses to close or transform their businesses in a way that eliminates person-to-person interaction.
The group acknowledges that this will be difficult, but says it is a necessary way to prevent community transmission of COVID-19.
The group of doctors also thanked businesses that have already taken action. It said that by becoming takeout only, allowing employees to work from home, waiving the need for sick notes, or discouraging non-essential movement within the community is showing they understand the threat the province is facing.
The letter ends by saying: “Regardless of our community’s response, we will continue to do everything that we possibly can to keep you and your family safe if and when you fall ill. Now, more than ever, we are in this together.”