The Canadian government has banned all foreigners, non-Canadians, no PR cards from entering the country, to keep Canadians safe from COVID-19.

Exceptions are being made for permanent residents, U.S. citizens, diplomats, crew and immediate family members of citizens.

Starting Wednesday, only four Canadian airports will have incoming international flights, including Toronto and Vancouver.

The prime minister also said no one who is displaying symptoms will be permitted to board a flight to Canada, and that air operators will be required to complete a basic health assessment of every passenger based on guidelines.

For Canadians staying outside of the country, PM Trudeau says it’s time for them to come home

“These measures are far-reaching,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

“These measures will help save lives.”

“I know this news will spark concern among Canadians travelling abroad. I want to assure you that our government will not leave you unsupported,” he said.

“To help asymptomatic Canadians to return home, our government will set up a support program for Canadians who need to get on a plane.

“Canadian travellers will be able to get financial assistance to help them with the costs of returning home or temporarily covering basic needs while they wait to come back to Canada.”

As of Saturday, there are 73 cases of the coronavirus in B.C., including one death, an elderly man in his 80s who was living in a care home in North Vancouver.

As of 10 a.m. on Monday, 175,817 people around the world have been infected with COVID-19, most of whom are in China.

There have been 6,717 deaths reported and 77,871 have fully recovered.

Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam’s advice is to postpone or cancel all non-essential travel outside Canada.

-FWH online