Canada could see 22,580 to 31,850 cases, and 500 to 700 deaths by next week | COVID-19

The coronavirus could infect up to 1.8 million people in Canada and cause 22,000 deaths, according to federal projections released Thursday.

That is a worst-case scenario, with very weak or no controls.

But if Canadians follow physical distancing and cough shielding guidelines, a more moderate possible scenario could see numbers shift dramatically.

By April 16, the short-term trajectory could be in range of 22,580 to 31,850 cases, with anywhere from 500 to 700 deaths.

The mid-range projection would see 27,215 cases and a lower fatality rate.