WINNIPEG - Manitoba has declared a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Brian Pallister says it was not an easy decision, but the declaration is necessary to protect the health and safety of all Manitobans.

It puts new measures in place that limit pubic gatherings to no more than 50 people, including at places of worship, restaurants and bars.

Several other provinces have also declared states of emergency. Pallister says Manitobans have been doing well and practising social distancing.

As of Thursday, there were 17 cases of the novel coronavirus in the province.