WINNIPEG — Manitobans will soon be allowed to see their friends again as the province relaxes one of its COVID-19 restrictions.

A ban on virtually all social gatherings that has been in place since May 22, with exceptions for people who live alone, is to change on Saturday.

People will be allowed to gather — outdoors only — in groups of up to five people.

The ban on indoor gatherings will continue.

Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief public health officer, says the number of new COVID-19 infections has dropped from a peak last month but the health-care system remains strained.

Thirty COVID-19 patients are being treated in other provinces in an effort to free up intensive care beds.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 9, 2021

The Canadian Press