More Than 8.5 Million People Have Now Been Tested For COVID-19 In Canada

That's a lot of people! 🤒
COVID-19 In Canada: Over 8.5 Million Canadians Have Been Tested For The Illness
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Managing Editor, Canada

That’s a lot of people! According to the latest data from the federal government, over 8.5 million people have now been tested for COVID-19 in Canada.

New data, shared on October 17, revealed that many millions of Canadians have visited local health centres to get checked for the respiratory illness.

Of those tested, a total of 196,321 people received a positive result. 

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8,644,269 People tested for COVID-19 in Canada

This, according to Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam, is a "2.2% positive overall."

Speaking on October 17 about the second wave of COVID-19, Dr. Tam acknowledged that things are a little different at the moment.

"This time around things are more complicated, considering that schools and businesses are open, posing very different challenges and choices for individuals and families," she said.

"There are no quick fixes and COVID-19 is not going away," the top doctor added.

As of Saturday, there were 21,129 active cases in Canada and 9,746 people had died.

*This article's cover image is for illustrative purposes only.

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  • Helena Hanson

    Managing Editor

    Helena Hanson (she/her) is the Managing Editor of Canada for Narcity and MTL Blog, where she brings her expertise in dreamy, aspirational travel journalism to life. A first-class graduate of Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Helena has a passion for inspiring readers to discover the magic in their own backyards. Originally from the U.K., Helena has spent years uncovering hidden gems and must-see destinations across countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and more. Having lived in both Canada and Australia, she's become a seasoned expert in off-the-beaten-path adventures and bucket-list experiences that don't break the bank. Whether she's writing about things to do in Ottawa, Montreal, or her favourite spot—Disney World—Helena hopes to leave readers dreaming of their next adventure.

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