The arrival of the coronavirus in Manitoba's prompted the Herman Prior Activity Centre and Central Plains Cancer Services in Portage la Prairie to shut down, temporarily. Prior Centre Executive Director Chris Dumont explains why they took the step.

"The reason, of course, is because with Manitoba Health suggesting that people limit their social interactions, especially for seniors," she says. "We really need to be aware that this is something that we need to stay on top of."

Meanwhile, CPCS Executive Director Sharilyn Knox says the decision to close their doors was a board of directors and staff move, on the same recommendation.

"We deal with quite vulnerable people in our office," she says. "We just want to encourage them to stay home, and not be out, unless absolutely necessary."

Dumont stresses they're still able to provide help.

"We will be keeping the office open," she says. "So the can call us or e-mail us during business hours. They can send us a message on our Facebook page, and we can answer any questions. One of the things that we want to do in this time is to ensure people aren't isolated."

Knox says this will last for the next three weeks.

"We'll keep listening to what the experts tell us," she says. "Hopefully we'll be open after that point, but it's a wait-and-see game. As we know, things are changing by the hour it seems right now."

Dumont says the office will remain open, so seniors can contact them, and that connection's important.

"A concern with seniors is to be aware of COVID scams," she says. "I've already heard cases of people offering quick and easy testing and just to let them know to check with somebody that they trust first."

Knox assures you they can still be contacted.

"By phone, or by e-mail," she says. "Or of course, all of our drivers lists and transportation lists are always available on our website. Our staff -- myself-- and Jody will be working from home during this time period."

Dumont and Knox tell us anyone needing their help can contact them. Here's that information.

Central Plains Cancer Services - 204-871-3391 executivedirector@cpcancerservices.ca

Herman Prior Centre - 204-857-6951

Central Plans Cancer Services