How long will this nightmare last? It's question we're all wondering and new projections provided by the federal government show where Canada is in the course of the pandemic and what it might look like down the road.

Modelling data from today's updated projection show that, if we continue with the strong epidemic control measures we have in place now like physical distancing and self-isolation, we can expect an infection rate of anywhere from 1 to 10 per cent of the population.

These measures won't disappear quickly, though.

In fact, according to the report, the prediction is that after the first wave concludes by the end of the summer, there will be several smaller, localized outbreaks with reduced importation and transmission continuing well into winter and potentially beyond.

Health authorities say it is 'critically important' to maintain coronavirus control measures until control over the spread during the first wave is achieved. They also say some measures may have to be re-introduced or implemented in any subsequent waves. pic.twitter.com/520FerKECk

— CBC News Alerts (@CBCAlerts) April 28, 2020

Health experts have warned of the potential for a second wave of outbreaks wherein Canadians may have to re-implement the epidemic control measures in place now.

Canada's Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam said today that data shows the country's virus growth is slowing, but has reiterated many times that we can expect prevention measures to continue for the foreseeable future.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also said we can expect some form of social distancing to be in place until a vaccine is discovered, and he said today that discovering and distributing one is still unfortunately a long way off.