
Five years ago, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel coronavirus, setting off a series of policies that transformed Canadians' lives for years. Read this article for free: Already have an account? As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed. Now, more than ever, we need your support.
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Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community! Five years ago, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel coronavirus, setting off a series of policies that transformed Canadians' lives for years. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? Five years ago, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel coronavirus, setting off a series of policies that transformed Canadians’ lives for years. The WHO’s declaration followed months of warning signs about the dangers of COVID-19, including mass lockdowns in China and Italy, and served as a wake-up call for many Canadians.
In the weeks and months that followed, Canadian governments moved to shut down schools and offices, limit travel and ban social gatherings, while offering unprecedented financial lifelines to help people and businesses weather the crisis. The pandemic turned public health officials into household names as people sought to keep up with the latest advice and regulatory changes. The virus has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Canada alone, many of them people in long-term care.
The WHO lifted the global COVID-19 emergency in May 2023, noting the illness had been on a downward trend for more than a year. This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 11, 2025. Advertisement.