Manitoba is marking its first death related to COVID-19, along with three additional probable cases.

That brings the total number of lab-confirmed positive and probable cases to 39.

The patient was a woman in her 60s. Officials say she had been in the Intensive Care Unit.

As of 12:01 a.m on Monday, March 30, public gatherings are limited to no more than 10 people, including churches, family gatherings, weddings and funerals. Grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations must ensure separation of one to two metres between patrons.

"The time to implement these strategies was two weeks ago, but if you haven't yet it's not too late," Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba's chief provincial public health officer explains. "You can protect yourself and others starting today.

"Now is the time for action, not for 'business as usual,' we need to enhance our social distancing strategies," Roussin says. "It's not a time for dismay, we're not helpless. We have these strategies in place which will protect our community against this virus."