Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is taking precautions after his wife was diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
A statement from the Prime Minister's Office on Thursday said Trudeau's wife Sophie began experiencing the symptoms this week and was to be tested for the coronavirus. Sophie Trudeau had recently returned from London, England, where she had a speaking engagement.
It was announced late Thursday evening that she had indeed tested positive for COVID-19. The Prime Minister announced that he would self-isolate for 14 days.
"The doctor's advice to the Prime Minister is to continue daily activities while self-monitoring, given he is exhibiting no symptoms himself," read the statement. "However, out of an abundance of caution, the Prime Minister is opting to self-isolate and work from home."
Trudeau was due to meet with national Indigenous leaders and kick off the First Ministers' Meeting Thursday afternoon. Those in-person events have been cancelled, but Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland will conduct First Ministers' business via phone. COVID-19 is expected to be a central topic.
"Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, we have urged Canadians to take all necessary precautions and follow medical advice in order to stay safe," read the statement. "This is what the Prime Minister and his family are doing."