The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health continues to monitor the Coronavirus situation as the outbreak continues to spread.

So far, there have been three confirmed cases in Canada, two in Ontario and one in B.C.. The disease has infected thousands around the world since the outbreak began in China in December.

Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said there’s symptoms people should watch for.

“The initial symptoms are fever, cough and tightness or shortness of breath, they can also be other non-specific symptoms like diarrhea or aches and pains,” Shahab said. “It’s very similar to influenza and other symptoms, and really it can progress to severe respiratory distress and other complications requiring hospital care.”

Shahab said risk is still low to the public in Saskatchewan at this time.

“Only if you have travelled to China and have come back to Canada, if you’re asymptomatic there’s no concern, you can go to school, work, or University,” Shahab said. “If you develop a fever or cough within two weeks of arrival, then stay home, and if you’re otherwise well but have symptoms, call health line (811) first, they will assess your symptoms.”

Shahab said there have been rumours of a Coronavirus case at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon, but it has been determined false.

“Even if there was something about a specific facility in Saskatchewan, I think it’s good to go to the credible websites because we will always keep individuals up to date,” Shahab said. “If there’s a first case in Saskatchewan, that will be formally announced just like other provinces.”

The death toll for the Coronavirus has now hit 170 in China.