Coronavirus: Justin Trudeau tells Canadians to 'go home and stay home'

Prime minister has been self-isolating since wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau tested positive for Covid-19

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau issued a stern warning to those ignoring pleas to practice social distancing.

Speaking at his daily news conference, Mr Trudeau explained that social distancing “is the single best way to keep the people around you safe”.

Striking a sterner tone then at his previous briefings, Mr Trudeau criticised people who are seemingly ignoring the advice.

“We’ve all seen the pictures online of people who seem to think they are invincible. Well, you’re not,” Trudeau said on Monday. “Enough is enough. Go home and stay home.”

Mr Trudeau also suggested that new measures might be brought in to make sure the advice to stay home is followed by all.

“We’re going to make sure this happens, whether by educating people more on the risks or by enforcing the rules if that’s needed,” he said.

The prime minister is to speak to the premiers of all provinces, to discuss what other measures can be taken to help tackle the pandemic.

Mr Trudeau suggested that one measure that could be taken is imposing strict limits on the movement of people in individual provinces.

He will discuss with them what the federal government can do under the 1988 Emergencies Act, which could allow provinces to impose restrictions to ensure the safety of citizens.

Mr Trudeau has been self isolating after his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau tested positive for coronavirus.

Ms Trudeau thanked those who sent her messages of support: “Although I’m experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus, I will be back on my feet soon,” she said.

“Being in quarantine at home is nothing compared to other Canadian families who might be going through this and for those facing more serious health concerns.”

According to a tracking project hosted by Johns Hopkins University, upwards of 1,482 people have tested positive in Canada. The death toll has reached at least 21.