Minister of Health Patty Hajdu looks on as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during a news conference in Ottawa, Wednesday March 11, 2020. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP)
CANADA — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government will likely recommend that Canadians avoid travel outside the country except for essential purposes.
The prime minister, who is quarantining himself at home after his wife tested positive for the new coronavirus, will address the nation later Friday.
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau fell ill after returning from Britain. The couple have three children, but Trudeau’s wife is the only member of the family with symptoms, the prime minister’s office said.
Trudeau himself has not been tested because he is not showing symptoms, his office said.
Trudeau said “we are going to be able to get through this if everyone is going to follow the advice of our medical professionals and experts.”
Trudeau is spending the day in briefings, phone calls and virtual meetings from home. He spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday.