NS Gov Updates (March 10 - May 10)

Update - May 10

May 10             12:45 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has seven new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,018 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200510002 .

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings this weekend. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

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NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Seven New Cases of COVID-19

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As of today, May 10, Nova Scotia has 1,018 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Seven new cases were identified Saturday, May 9.

 

"Mother's Day weekend is usually filled with visits and hugs for moms, grandmothers and mother-figures. Unfortunately, for many families, Mother's Day will look different this year," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Please celebrate your mother as safely as possible today. If you don't live with her, send your love virtually. This virus doesn't pause its spread for even one day."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 676 Nova Scotia tests on May 9 and is operating 24-hours.

 

"Everything we are all doing to slow COVID-19 is working, but we are not out of the woods. This will be a many months-long process and we must remain vigilant," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Enjoy your weekend and Mother's Day while following our public health orders and recommendations."

 

There are three licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with active cases of COVID-19. Northwood in Halifax currently has 157 residents and 20 staff with active cases. One other facility has one staff member with an active case of COVID-19 and another facility has one resident with an active case.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 33,579 negative test results, 1,018 positive COVID-19 test results and 47 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Seven-hundred and forty-nine individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 9

May 9             2:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 47. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has three new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,011 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200509002 .

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings this weekend. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

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NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports One More Death, Three New Cases of COVID-19

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Today, May 9, Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 47. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I extend deep condolences to those who are grieving," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "It is our collective duty to do all we can to slow the spread of COVID-19. We will get through this best by working together and supporting one another."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,011 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Three new cases were identified Friday, May 8.

 

"COVID-19 is a terrible disease, but we all play a role in how it impacts our province," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Whatever you do this weekend, don't let your guard down. Enjoy the outdoors with only those you live with and connect with others virtually. Maintain social distance, wash your hands, stay home as much as possible and clean high-use surfaces."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 598 Nova Scotia tests on May 8 and is operating 24-hours.

 

There are two licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with active cases of COVID-19. Northwood in Halifax currently has 157 residents and 31 staff with active cases. One other facility has one staff member with active cases of COVID-19.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 33,190 negative test results, 1,011 positive COVID-19 test results and 47 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Seven individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Seven-hundred and forty-three individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 8

May 8              5:40 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health, today announced that the school year for students will end June 5 and licensed daycares will remain closed until at least June 5. They also outlined how government will determine the best way to reopen Nova Scotia.

 

Teachers will continue to work until the end of June to complete assessments and other tasks.

 

The goal is for daycares to reopen by June 8 but the timeline for them to resume operating will be determined in consultation with the sector. Those consultations are underway and will help inform Nova Scotia's reopening plan.

 

Nova Scotia's reopening plan is under development. It will be based on the following:

-- advice from the Public Health Agency of Canada's recommendations and guidelines to lift public health measures

-- status of COVID-19 in the province

-- consultation with sectors

-- the ability for people and businesses to continue to follow public health measures

 

Reopening will be done in phases, over time. Each phase could last a minimum of 28 days. Readiness to reopen - and to move onto the next phase - will be assessed weekly.

 

The full news release is available here: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200508005 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200508004.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4oNpwxuz8E and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is now available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has recorded 46 deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 1,008 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Five individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Seven-hundred and twenty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data.

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200508002 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200508001.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

May 8             12:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 46. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has one new COVID-19 case. As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,008 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200508001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Two More Deaths, One New Case of COVID-19

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Today, May 8, Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 46. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"All Nova Scotians continue to hold Northwood residents and staff in their thoughts. I hope the families grieving today know their province is with them," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Health system partners stand side-by-side with Northwood and our mobilization of efforts to support them will continue for as long as necessary."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,008 confirmed cases of COVID-19. One new case was identified Thursday, May 7.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 840 Nova Scotia tests on May 7 and is operating 24-hours.

 

There are two licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with active cases of COVID-19. Northwood in Halifax currently has 156 residents and 38 staff with active cases. One other facility has one staff member with an active case of COVID-19.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 32,835 negative test results, 1,008 positive COVID-19 test results and 46 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Five individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Seven-hundred and twenty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 7

May 7                 3:45 PM

 

Government today announced the Essential Health Care Workers Program, which will see health-care workers receive a bonus of up to $2,000 after a four-month period, beginning March 13. It includes eligible employees at the Nova Scotia Health Authority, IWK Health Centre and in long-term care, home care and in-home support and emergency health services. Employees who volunteered to be redeployed to work at a facility experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak will also receive this benefit.

 

The program is expected to benefit up to 43,000 health-care workers in the province. The Department of Health and Wellness will work with its partners to deliver the money.

 

The full news release is available at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200507004

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

May 7             1:20 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 44. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has nine new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,007 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200507002.

 

There is no media briefing today. There will be a briefing tomorrow, Friday, May 8.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Three More Deaths, Nine New Cases of COVID-19

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Today, May 7, Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 44. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"Losing a loved one is never easy and the restrictions around COVID-19 make it difficult for families to come together to grieve," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "My heart goes out to the families who are mourning the loss of their loved one today."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 1,007 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Nine new cases were identified Wednesday, May 6.

 

"We're doing everything we can to bring the situation at Northwood under control," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Our number one concern in responding to this unprecedented public health emergency has always been, and continues to be, the safety and well-being of everyone."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 875 Nova Scotia tests on May 6 and is operating 24-hours.

 

There are three licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with active cases of COVID-19. Northwood in Halifax currently has 156 residents and 44 staff with active cases. Two other facilities each have one staff member with an active case of COVID-19.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 32,289 negative test results, 1,007 positive COVID-19 test results and 44 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Five individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Seven-hundred and eight individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 6

May 6              1:00 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has seven new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 998 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200506001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 2 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

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NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Seven New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, May 6, Nova Scotia has 998 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Seven new cases were identified Tuesday, May 5.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 764 Nova Scotia tests on May 5 and is operating 24-hours.

 

There are three licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with active cases of COVID-19. Northwood in Halifax currently has 160 residents and 51 staff with active cases. Two other facilities each have one staff member with an active case of COVID-19.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 31,541 negative test results, 998 positive COVID-19 test results and 41 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Five individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Six-hundred and sixty-one individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 5

May 5              12:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 41. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has six new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 991 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200505001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Three More Deaths, Six New Cases of COVID-19

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Today, May 5, Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 41. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"Today, sadly, we have to report three more deaths from COVID-19 at Northwood. I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We are working hard with the Northwood team and our partners have rallied around the home and its residents and staff. We will keep supporting them until this horrible disease is defeated."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 991 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Six new cases were identified Monday, May 4.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 454 Nova Scotia tests on May 4 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of May 4, there were 11 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 245 residents and 113 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 30,984 negative test results, 991 positive COVID-19 test results and 41 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Six individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Six-hundred and fifty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 4

May 4              2:10 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 38. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 14 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 985 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200504001 .

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefing today. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports One More Death, Fourteen New Cases of COVID-19

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Today, May 4, Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 38. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"I offer my condolences to the family who is grieving the loss of their loved one today," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We must remain vigilant, especially around our long-term care homes, to protect residents and staff. We have slowed the spread provincially, but we need to stay the course and continue to follow the public health protocols."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 985 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Fourteen new cases were identified Sunday, May 3.

 

"It is important everyone recognizes Nova Scotia continues to see new cases of COVID-19 - we are not out of the woods," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Now is not the time to let our guard down. Please continue to do all you can to help slow the spread of this virus by following public health orders and advice."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 455 Nova Scotia tests on May 3 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of May 3, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 239 residents and 111 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 30,441 negative test results, 985 positive COVID-19 test results and 38 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Six individuals are currently in hospital, two of those in ICU. Six-hundred and thirty-eight individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 3

May 3              3:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting six additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 37. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has eight new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 971 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200503002.

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefing today or Monday, May 4. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Six More Deaths, Eight New Cases of COVID-19

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, May 3, Nova Scotia is reporting six additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 37. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"Six more families are mourning the loss of a loved one today and my thoughts are with them. I am so very sorry for you loss," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I ask all Nova Scotians to help keep COVID-19 out of our long-term care facilities and our communities by continuing to follow the public health directives to help stop the spread of this virus."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 971 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Eight new cases were identified Saturday, May 2.

 

"We continue to work with our partners to protect residents and staff at Northwood," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "We all need to continue working together, washing our hands, social distancing and using our common sense to keep fighting this virus."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 734 Nova Scotia tests on May 2 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of May 2, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 239 residents and 109 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 29,945 negative test results, 971 positive COVID-19 test results and 37 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Six individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Six-hundred and twenty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 2

May 2              3:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 31. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 4 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 963 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200502001.

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings this weekend. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Two More Deaths, Four New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, May 2, Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 31. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I want to offer my condolences to the families of the residents of Northwood who have died due to COVID-19. I am very sorry for your loss," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I ask Nova Scotians to continue to fight this virus through diligent social distancing, hand washing and common sense. When you are outside this weekend, taking care of your physical and mental health, please keep these things top of mind."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 963 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Four new cases were identified Friday, May 1.

 

"We are working very hard with the Northwood team and the health authority to isolate the virus to protect the residents and staff at Northwood," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Please continue to follow public health directives and advice. We must all keep working as one to fight COVID-19."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 866 Nova Scotia tests on May 1 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of May 1, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 239 residents and 109 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 29,406 negative test results, 963 positive COVID-19 test results and 31 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Six-hundred and nine individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - May 1

May 1              2:20 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 29. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 12 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 959 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501004.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. They will also announce the easing of some public health restrictions around outdoor and recreational activities. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports One More Death, Twelve New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, May 1, Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 29. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"The thoughts and best wishes of all Nova Scotians are with everyone at Northwood. To the family and loved ones of this individual, please accept our deepest condolences," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Many people, representing many organizations, are working hard to help Northwood address this virus. This support will continue as long as it is needed."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 959 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twelve new cases were identified Thursday, April 30.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 812 Nova Scotia tests on April 30 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 30, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 237 residents and 105 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 28,883 negative test results, 959 positive COVID-19 test results and 29 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and ninety-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 17

 

May 1       5:30 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health, today announced the easing of some public health restrictions around COVID-19.

 

Existing public health directives around social distancing and social gatherings remain in place. People must keep two metres apart and not gather in groups of more than five.

 

The initial steps are:

-- provincial and municipal parks can reopen, but playground equipment will continue to be off limits

-- trails are allowed to open

-- people are allowed to use and visit community gardens

-- garden centres, nurseries and similar businesses can open

-- sportfishing is permitted from shore or boat, but fishing derbies are not allowed

-- people can attend boating, yacht or sailing clubs for the purpose of preparing boats for use

-- golf driving ranges can open, including those at golf clubs, but the course must remain closed; golf clubs can perform necessary maintenance and preparations for opening

-- people can use their cottages. Use is restricted to one household unit at a time, travel must be directly to the cottage and back, and travelling back and forth frequently from cottage and primary residence is discouraged

-- provincial and private campgrounds remain closed, but they can perform necessary maintenance and preparations for opening. An exception is recreational vehicles parked year-round at private campgrounds, which can be used but must follow the same rules as cottages

-- drive-in religious services will be allowed, as long as people stay in their cars, they are parked two metres apart and there are no interactions between people in cars or between people in cars and others

 

These measures take effect immediately.

 

Details on these adjustments can be found at: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/. A phased plan to further lift public health restrictions is under development. It is based on science and the timing of each phase will be determined by the result to the easing of restrictions.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501006 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501007.

A frequently asked question (FAQ) document is attached.

 

State of Emergency to be extended

The province is renewing the state of emergency for another two weeks under the authority of the Emergency Management Act for the protection of the health and safety of Nova Scotians. The order will take effect at noon Sunday, May 3 and extend to noon Sunday, May 17, unless government terminates or extends it.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501002 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501003.

 

Today’s news conference

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZE_rNWfH-A4 and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is now available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has recorded 29 deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 959 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and ninety-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501005 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200501004.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Should you not wish to receive these updates, please contact us at covid19info@novascotia.ca to be removed from the distribution list. 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Download FAQ

Update - April 30

April 30            1:10 PM

 

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twelve New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 30, Nova Scotia has 947 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twelve new cases were identified Wednesday, April 29.

 

"I want to thank all Nova Scotians for their patience and vigilance - we will get through this together," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I urge you all to keep practising good hygiene and maintaining social distance."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 901 Nova Scotia tests on April 29 and is operating 24-hours.

 

"Now is not the time to let our guard down," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "What we are doing is working to slow this virus' spread and we need to stay the course. Please continue to follow public health orders and advice."

 

As of April 29, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 235 residents and 104 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 28,209 negative test results, 947 positive COVID-19 test results and 28 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and forty-five individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data.

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - April 29

April 29              1:00 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 28. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 20 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 935 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200429001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports One More Death, Twenty New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 29, Nova Scotia is reporting one additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 28. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of this individual. We will continue to work diligently with our partners to make sure we do everything we can to protect residents and staff at Northwood and all of our long-term care homes from this terrible disease," said Premier Stephen McNeil.

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 935 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty new cases were identified Tuesday, April 28.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 905 Nova Scotia tests on April 28 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 28, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 227 residents and 97 staff.

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 27,486 negative test results, 935 positive COVID-19 test results and 28 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and twenty-nine individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - April 28

April 28       6:00 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil today announced schools and licenced child care will remain closed until after the May long weekend, and plans to continue at-home learning until at least Tuesday, May 19.

 

Following the recommendation of Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, all public schools and licensed child care providers will remain closed until then to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These closures will be reassessed as that date approaches.

 

During school closures, students and families will continue to have access to e-learning and at-home options that will be assignment and project focused, so they may can continue their education.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428005 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428006.

 

Loan program available to municipalities

A new operating loan program is being introduced to help municipalities with financial losses due to COVID-19.

 

The $380 million loan program, which was developed in collaboration with the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities and the Association of Municipal Administrators, will be available through the Municipal Finance Corporation.

 

Municipalities interested in accessing a loan will first need to determine their revenue shortfall. Municipal councils will be required to pass a resolution and submit it to the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The department will analyze requests and if approved will forward the approval to the Nova Scotia Municipal Finance Corporation. Upon approval by the corporation’s board of directors it will administer a loan agreement.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428004.

 

Today’s news conference

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecnaLKlK71I and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is now available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has recorded 27 deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 915 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Twelve individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and twenty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428002.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

April 28              12:35 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 27. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 15 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 915 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200428002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Three More Deaths, Fifteen New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 28, Nova Scotia is reporting three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 27. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"Three more families are grieving losses in our province today and my heart goes out to them at this incredibly difficult time," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We are working with our partners to ensure Northwood has the support they need to try to stop this virus."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 915 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Fifteen new cases were identified Monday, April 27.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 483 Nova Scotia tests on April 27 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 27, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 218 residents and 95 staff.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 26,902 negative test results, 915 positive COVID-19 test results and 27 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Twelve individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and twenty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - April 27

April 27     12:20 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 27 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 900 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200427002.

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefing today, April 27.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter andand https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-seven New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 27, Nova Scotia has 900 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-seven new cases were identified Sunday, April 26.

 

"We will get through this extraordinarily difficult time by pulling together and supporting each another," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Please continue to reach out to your loved ones, be there for those who are grieving or having a difficult time and know that we will come through this."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 645 Nova Scotia tests on April 26 and is operating 24-hours.

 

"Aggressive and accessible testing remains a critical part of Nova Scotia's fight against COVID-19. We need to identify and treat as many cases as we can," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "If you have two of these symptoms - fever, new or worsening cough, sore throat, runny nose or headache - please visit the 811 website. If you do not have internet access then please call 811."

 

As of April 26, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 198 residents and 95 staff.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 26,231 negative test results, 900 positive COVID-19 test results and 24 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Twelve individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Five-hundred and nine individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - April 26

April 26 1:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 24. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.  Nova Scotia has eight new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 873 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200426002 .

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today, April 26, and Monday, April 27. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Two More Deaths, Eight New Cases of COVID-19

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 26, Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 24. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"Every time a family loses a loved one to this virus, the pain is new. Two more families must say goodbye and not being able to gather with friends and neighbours to mourn together only makes it harder. Your entire province grieves with you," said Premier Stephen McNeil.

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 873 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Eight new cases were identified Saturday, April 25.

 

"We continue to see the devastating impact this virus can have. Please stay strong and stay the course," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "You can and should enjoy the outdoors this weekend, but please do it safely. Stay in your yard, walk around your neighbhourhood and keep your distance from others."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 673 Nova Scotia tests on April 25 and is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia has conducted more COVID-19 tests per capita than any other province.

 

As of April 25, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 197 residents and 95 staff.

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 25,615 negative test results, 873 positive COVID-19 test results and 24 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Thirteen individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Four hundred and thirty-nine individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data  .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free)

Update - April 25

April 25 2:20 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting six additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 22. Five occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.  As well, a man in his 80s with underlying medical conditions died in the Western Zone.  He was not a resident of a long-term care home.  Nova Scotia has 15 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 865 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200425002 .

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today, April 25, Sunday, April 26 and Monday, April 27. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Six More Deaths, Fifteen New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 25, Nova Scotia is reporting six additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 22. Five occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. As well, a man in his 80s with underlying medical conditions died in the Western Zone; he was not a resident of a long-term care home.

 

"Our province is experiencing a tremendous amount of pain right now. Our thoughts are with everyone who has lost a loved one from this virus," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We stand together to grieve those who have died and to support those who are in mourning."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 865 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Fifteen new cases were identified Friday, April 24.

 

"With the weekend upon us, I ask everyone to remain vigilant. Please stay home as much as possible, wash your hands and maintain physical distance," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "Let's be able to look back and know we did everything we could to stop this virus from hurting any more of our fellow Nova Scotians."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 965 Nova Scotia tests on April 24 and is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia has conducted more COVID-19 tests per capita than any other province.

 

As of April 24, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 191 residents and 90 staff.

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 25,119 negative test results, 865 positive COVID-19 test results and 22 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Four hundred and twelve individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 24

April 24       6:00 PM

 

Government today announced the COVID-19 Small Business Credit and Support Program as a temporary stream so that small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19 have access to credit, cash grants and support. The program will be delivered through participating credit unions and available starting Wednesday, April 29. To be eligible, small businesses must have a payroll less than $20,000 in the previous fiscal year and have experienced a decline in revenue from sales of at least 15 per cent in March or at least 30 per cent in April, May or June.

 

As part of the package of supports for small businesses, the province is working with post-secondary education partners to deliver education, training and guidance to small businesses. A centralized hub hosted by the Nova Scotia Community College will connect businesses to support programs available from post-secondary institutions and other regional organizations.

 

As well, Nova Scotia is partnering with the federal government to provide commercial rent relief for small businesses that have temporarily ceased operations or experienced a 70 per cent revenue decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The province is contributing $9 million to the program.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200424007. A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpZJToT4shU and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is now available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has record 16 deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 850 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Three hundred and ninety-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200424004 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200424005.

 

Support for mental health and wellbeing

More than ever, it’s important that we support each other and look after our mental health, and reach out for help if it is needed. Support for mental health and addictions is available. Nova Scotians can find mental health programs and resources for children, youth and adults, and contact information at https://novascotia.ca/mental-health/. As mentioned at yesterday’s news conference, Kids Help Phone is now providing phone and text support for adults, post-secondary students, and youth. Details are available in the attached document, which can be shared via email and social media.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

April 24    12:00 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 23 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 850 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200424004.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-three New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 24, Nova Scotia has confirmed 850 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-three new cases were identified Thursday, April 23.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 888 Nova Scotia tests on Thursday, April 23 and is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia has conducted more COVID-19 tests per capita than any other province.

 

As of April 23, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 189 residents and 82 staff.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 24,521 negative test results, 850 positive COVID-19 test results and 16 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Three hundred and ninety-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 23

April 23  1:50 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting four additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 16. Three occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality and the other occurred at Harbourstone Enhanced Care in Sydney. Nova Scotia has 55 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 827 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200423002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Four More Deaths, Fifty-five New Cases of COVID-19

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 23, Nova Scotia is reporting four additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 16. Three occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality and the other occurred at Harbourstone Enhanced Care in Sydney.

 

"Our hearts ache for those who have lost a loved one to COVID-19. All Nova Scotians send their support and condolences to the families and friends of those who have passed," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "The entire health-care system has rallied around Northwood and we continue to provide support and guidance to all long-term care homes to address this virus."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 827 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Fifty-five new cases were identified Wednesday, April 22.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 921 Nova Scotia tests on Wednesday, April 22 and is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia has conducted more COVID-19 tests per capita than any other province.

 

As of April 22, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 158 residents and 79 staff.

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 23,731 negative test results, 827 positive COVID-19 test results and 16 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Three hundred and fifty-eight individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 22

April 22        5:15 PM

 

Government will now pay extra dispensing fees for Pharmacare clients for refills on prescriptions that would usually be filled for longer periods. For example, government will cover the second and third refill dispensing fees for prescriptions typically dispensed for 90 days. In March, the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists recommended that pharmacists dispense prescriptions every 30 days that would usually be filled for a longer period of time. This step was taken as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic to help protect the drug supply and is similar to measures in place in other parts of the country.

 

Government will also waive the $5.00 prescription co-pay for clients of the Income Assistance program and the Low Income Pharmacare for Children program. These temporary measures take effect Thursday, April 23.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200422004 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200422003.

 

As Nova Scotians continue to process this past weekend’s tragedy, many people are looking for ways to show their support and respect to the RCMP, police, and first responders, as well as the families and loved ones of the victims. At today’s news conference, Dr. Strang renewed his call for Nova Scotians to find ways to do this safely, without further risk of COVID-19 spread. There are ways to show solidarity while staying apart. An online book of condolences for those who lost their lives this past weekend, along with social media graphics than can be downloaded and shared on social media are available at https://novascotia.ca/condolences.  

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek26BhJVvd4 and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is now available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has recorded 12 deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 772 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Three hundred and thirty individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data.

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200422002 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200422001.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

April 22  12:40 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 12. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 35 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 772 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200422001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Two More Deaths, Thirty-five New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 22, Nova Scotia is reporting two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 12. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"I extend my condolences to the families and loved one of these individuals - you are in the thoughts of all Nova Scotians. My heart goes out to everyone at Northwood at this time and we are working very closely with our partners to continue to implement an emergency plan to help bring this virus under control at the facility," said Premier Stephen McNeil.

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 772 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-five new cases were identified Tuesday, April 21.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 849 Nova Scotia tests on Tuesday, April 21 and is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia has conducted more COVID-19 tests per capita than any other province.

 

As of April 21, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 148 residents and 65 staff.

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 22,993 negative test results, 772 positive COVID-19 test results and 12 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Three hundred and thirty individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 21

April 21   12:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting another death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 10. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 16 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 737 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200421001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports One More Death, Sixteen New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 21, Nova Scotia is reporting another death related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 10. The death occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"This is a deeply sad day for the family and loved ones of this individual, as well as everyone at Northwood. Nova Scotians offer their heartfelt condolences to them," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We will all get through this extraordinarily difficult time by pulling together and supporting each other."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has confirmed 737 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Sixteen new cases were identified Monday, April 20.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 516 Nova Scotia tests on Monday, April 20 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 20, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 128 residents and 62 staff.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 22,190 negative test results, 737 positive COVID-19 test results and 10 deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in ICU. Two hundred and eighty-six individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 20

April 20     1:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 46 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 721 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200420001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3:30 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Forty-six New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 20, Nova Scotia has confirmed 721 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Forty-six new cases were identified Sunday, April 19.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 874 Nova Scotia tests on Sunday, April 19 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 19, there were nine licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors' facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 127 residents and 61 staff.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 21,769 negative test results, 721 positive COVID-19 test results and nine deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Twelve individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Two hundred and forty-eight individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 19

April 19        6 PM

 

Government and the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) are working to help Northwood implement an emergency plan to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak at its Halifax Campus. Starting today, April 19, recovered patients are being moved offsite, additional staff are coming in from across the province, and residents are being tested and treated onsite at the facility.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200419003 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200419002.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Nova Scotia has recorded nine deaths related to COVID-19 and a total of 675 positive test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Two hundred individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data.

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200419001 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200419002.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

April 19   1:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting two more deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to nine. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 26 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 675 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200419002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Two More Deaths, Twenty-Six New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 19, Nova Scotia is reporting two more deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to nine. The deaths occurred at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of these two individuals," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I want to assure everyone, but particularly those who live and work at Northwood, that the health-care system has mobilized to help you through this."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 675 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-six new cases were identified Saturday, April 18.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 856 Nova Scotia tests on Saturday, April 18 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 18, there were eight licensed long-term care homes in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 93 residents and 54 staff. 

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 21,120 negative test results, 675 positive COVID-19 test results and nine deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Two hundred individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 18

April 18   3 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia is reporting three more deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to seven. The deaths occurred Friday, April 17, at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia has 43 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, Nova Scotia has 649 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200418002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update tomorrow, Sunday, April 19 at about 3 p.m. It will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Three More Deaths, Forty-three New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Today, April 18, Nova Scotia is reporting three more deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the total to seven. The deaths occurred Friday, April 17, at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax Regional Municipality. An update on the situation will be provided Sunday, April 19.

 

"My greatest fear was that this virus would make its way into our long-term care homes," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I was so sad to learn of this devasting loss of life. We are working with Northwood to implement an emergency plan to isolate the virus and protect your loved ones."

 

As of today, Nova Scotia has 649 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Forty-three new cases were identified Friday, April 17.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 1,310 Nova Scotia tests on Friday, April 17 and is operating 24-hours. The lab has now completed more than 20,000 samples so far.

 

As of April 17, there were eight licensed long-term care homes in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 67 residents and 48 staff. 

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 20,312 negative test results, 649 positive COVID-19 test results and seven deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, five of those in ICU. One-hundred and eighty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to May 3

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

For help or information about domestic violence 24/7, call 1-855-225-0220 (toll-free).

Update - April 17

April 17              5: 15

 

Additional measures to help vulnerable Nova Scotians were announced today, April 17. Nova Scotia's most vulnerable families, seniors and youth will receive additional support for food, shelter, basic necessities and staying connected during the province's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Nova Scotia Power, EfficiencyOne and the province are redirecting $3 million from the HomeWarming program to fund organizations that deliver prepared meals, operate soup kitchens, help the homeless and provide other services. Nova Scotia Power has contributed $1 million, while EfficiencyOne is providing $2 million of provincial funding for the program.

 

HomeWarming normally provides free home energy assessments and upgrades for low-income Nova Scotians. COVID-19 restrictions mean this work won't be happening for the time being. Approved projects will go ahead once the restrictions are lifted and applications are still being processed and accepted.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417006 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417007

 

The province is extending the state of emergency under the authority of the Emergency Management Act for another two weeks for the protection of the health and safety of Nova Scotians. The order will extend to noon Sunday, May 3, unless government terminates or extends it. The full news release is available at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417005 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417004.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZ-k3avfF1A and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 19,506 negative test results, 606 positive COVID-19 test results and four deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, five of those in ICU. One-hundred and seventy-seven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417002.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

April 17   1:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has recorded its fourth death related to COVID-19. Today, April 17, a female in her 80’s in Cape Breton died as a result of complications related to COVID-19. Nova Scotia has 27 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 17, Nova Scotia has 606 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200417002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Fourth Death, Twenty-seven New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Nova Scotia has recorded its fourth death related to COVID-19. Today, April 17, a female in her 80's in Cape Breton died as a result of complications related to COVID-19.

 

"Its with great sadness that I have to tell you that another Nova Scotia family is now grieving the loss of a loved one as result of COVID-19," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "As I offer them my heartfelt condolences, I want to emphasize to all Nova Scotians that we must all continue to work together to fight this terrible disease."

 

As of today, April 17, Nova Scotia has 606 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-seven new cases were identified Thursday, April 16.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 966 Nova Scotia tests on Thursday, April 16 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 16, there were eight licensed long-term care homes in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 55 residents and 43 staff. 

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 19,506 negative test results, 606 positive COVID-19 test results and four deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, five of those in ICU. One-hundred and seventy-seven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 16

April 16     1:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 30 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 16, Nova Scotia has 579 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200416001.  

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Thirty New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 16, Nova Scotia has 579 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty new cases were identified Wednesday, April 15.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 1,065 Nova Scotia tests on Wednesday, April 15 and is operating 24-hours.

 

As of April 15, there were seven licensed long-term care homes in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 42 residents and 23 staff. 

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 18,453 negative test results, 579 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and seventy-six individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 15

April 15     2 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 32 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 15, Nova Scotia has 549 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200415001.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Thirty-two New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 15, Nova Scotia has 549 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-two new cases were identified Tuesday, April 14.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 885 Nova Scotia tests on Tuesday, April 14 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 17,419 negative test results, 549 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and thirty-seven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 14

April 14     6:30 PM

 

Government released COVID-19 projections today, April 14, that show how COVID-19 could progress through the province through to June 30 if people continue to follow public health orders to stay home, social distance, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and practise good hygiene.

 

Today, Nova Scotia reported 517 positive cases of COVID-19. According to the projections, if Nova Scotia had not put strong public health measures in place, the province could have instead had 943 cases as of today. They also show that if Nova Scotians continue to follow public health orders, there could be 1,453 cases by June 30, but with poor compliance, cases could grow to 6,269 over that time period. It is important to note the numbers are only modelling estimates.

 

The projections show a flattened peak in total cases in May that continues into June if public health measures continue.

 

Testing has proven to be effective. The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab is operating 24-hours. Nova Scotia is second in Canada in the number of people tested per million.

 

Other highlights of the projections include:

-- without public health measures, the model projects hospitalizations of COVID-19 cases would peak at about 85 in May then slowly begin to decline. With strongly sticking to public health orders there would be a peak of about 35 in May and then decline throughout June

-- currently, the most cases in the province are in the Dartmouth/southeastern community health network, almost double of nearby Halifax

 

The pandemic modelling was developed by staff from the Department of Health and Wellness, Nova Scotia Health Authority and IWK Health Centre.  Details can be found here: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/modelling/

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200414003 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200414004.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL8mPczIC00 and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 16,755 negative test results, 517 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and twenty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200414001 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200414002.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

April 14     1 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 43 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 14, Nova Scotia has 517 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200414002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

As previously announced, a section has been added to the Health Protection Act order specific to temporary foreign workers and their employers. More information on the order and what it means for Nova Scotians is available here: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/what-the-health-protection-act-order-means/.  

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Forty-three New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 14, Nova Scotia has 517 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Forty-three new cases were identified Monday, April 13.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 1,476 Nova Scotia tests on Monday, April 13 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has recently expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 16,755 negative test results, 517 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and twenty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 13

April 13   6:00 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, gave an update today, April 13, on new measures for long-term care and home-care workers.

 

Front-line workers in every public and private long-term care home, residential care facility and home-care agency across the province will now be expected to wear masks to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Distribution to workers began over the weekend. Effective Tuesday, April 14, masks will be distributed to all front-line workers in residential care and continuing care facilities and to home-care employees.

 

Details include:

-- the protocol applies to nursing homes and residential care facilities licensed by the Department of Health and Wellness and to private, unlicensed assisted-living facilities, retirement homes, memory-care homes and enriched-care homes

-- home-care workers must also wear a mask under the protocol

-- the protocol also applies to direct-care staff in residential facilities funded by the Disability Support Program and licensed by the Minister of Community Services under the Homes for Special Care Act: adult residential centres, regional rehabilitation centres, residential care facilities, small option homes, developmental residences and group homes

-- all facilities must continue to get masks through existing supply chains. Government will only provide masks to these facilities on an emergency basis

-- government is partnering with the Health Association of Nova Scotia to distribute the masks to all facilities

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200413003 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200413004.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrK_GufPhkA and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 15,580 negative test results, 474 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and one individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data.

 

The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200413001 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200413002.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

April 13   1:40 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has recorded its third death related to COVID-19. On Sunday, April 12, a male in his 80's in Halifax Regional Municipality died as a result of complications related to COVID-19. Nova Scotia has 29 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 13, Nova Scotia has 474 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200413002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Third Death, 29 New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

Nova Scotia has recorded its third death related to COVID-19. On Sunday, April 12, a male in his 80's in Halifax Regional Municipality died as a result of complications related to COVID-19.

 

"Tragically, another family is grieving the loss of a loved one as result of COVID-19," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "As I offer to them my heartfelt condolences, I want to emphasize to all Nova Scotians that we cannot afford to become complacent. Life is precious and we must all work together to protect those who are dear to us."

 

As of today, April 13, Nova Scotia has 474 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-nine new cases were identified Sunday, April 12.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 947 Nova Scotia tests on Sunday, April 12 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 15,580 negative test results, 474 positive COVID-19 test results and three deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. One-hundred and one individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 12

April 12, 2020      1:00 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 17 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 12, there are 445 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200412002.

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today Sunday, April 12.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

Thank you for your interest and ongoing support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Seventeen New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 12, Nova Scotia has 445 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Seventeen new cases were identified Saturday, April 11.

 

"On a weekend when many of us would be visiting family and observing tradition, let's honour those working on the front lines the best way we can - by staying home," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Thank you to everyone who is staying in, minimizing contact with others and helping to stop the spread of COVID-19."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 778 Nova Scotia tests on Saturday, April 11 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

"The only way we can overcome this deadly virus is by working together and supporting each other in following public health direction," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health. "None of this is easy. But it's vitally important for every Nova Scotian to do their part to keep their fellow citizens safe, especially those most at risk, including everyone providing an essential service."

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 14,295 negative test results, 445 positive COVID-19 test results and two deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Nine individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Ninety-seven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 11

April 11, 2020     1:08 PM

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 21 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 11, there are 428 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200411002.

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today, April 11 or Sunday, April 12. Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook. 

---------

NEWS RELEASE

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-one New Cases of COVID-19

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 11, Nova Scotia has 428 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-one new cases were identified Friday, April 10.

"Easter and Passover are traditionally times of celebration, love and family get-togethers. But this year is going to look a little bit different," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Please don't have family dinners or get-togethers. Stay home and reach out to loved ones by phone or video chat or whatever is best. There will be other long weekends. There will be other times to see family and friends. But if we do not follow public health protocols, we reduce the chances of having those gatherings sooner."

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 885 Nova Scotia tests on Friday, April 10 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, has a message for all Nova Scotia children during this difficult and confusing time for them.

 

"I want to remind Nova Scotians that not only is the Easter Bunny an essential service provider, he is an expert in physical distancing and has been practicing good paw-washing since he was just a young bunny," said Dr. Strang. "If we continue to work together, we can follow the public health measures, stay safe and still have fun."

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 13,632 negative test results, 428 positive COVID-19 test results and two deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Eight individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Ninety-five individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 10

April 10    2:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has 34 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 10, there are 407 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200410002

 

There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today, April 10, Saturday, April 11 or Sunday, April 12.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

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NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Thirty-four New Cases of COVID-19

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NOTE TO EDITORS: There will be no COVID-19 media briefings today, April 10, Saturday, April 11 or Sunday, April 12.

  

Government will continue to issue news releases on new cases each day.

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As of today, April 10, Nova Scotia has 407 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-four new cases were identified Thursday, April 9.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 915 Nova Scotia tests on Thursday, April 9 and is operating 24-hours.

 

"We have removed travel from the screening criteria for COVID-19 and increased our lab capacity so that we're now processing close to a thousand tests every day," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "That means we are finding more cases, including those with mild symptoms. I want to thank our lab and all the staff who are working around the clock to catch cases of COVID-19 and helping to keep all Nova Scotians safe from this disease."

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

"I want to stress to all Nova Scotians, remain vigilant, follow the public health measures, practice good hygiene, stay home as much as possible, and monitor your health," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health. "If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, don't delay. Please go to the 811 website to see if you should call 811 for further assessment."

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 13,014 negative test results, 407 positive COVID-19 test results and two deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Eight individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Ninety-three individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

Update - April 9

April 9, 2020   5:45 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, gave an update today, April 9, on efforts related to COVID-19.

 

Measures announced today include:

-- applications for the $40 million Worker Emergency Bridge Fund and Small Business Impact Grant will be available and accepted starting Friday, April 10. Applications for small business will be online at 8 a.m. A toll-free phone line for applications for the worker fund will be open starting at 8 a.m. Call 1-800-863-6582 after checking eligibility online. See https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/#support  for more information.

-- payment for more than 480 small-business fees will be deferred until June 30 to keep cash in small business hands

-- to help people who need additional supports, 211 will launch Saturday, April 11, a new service to connect people needing COVID-19 assistance with the Canadian Red Cross. The Red Cross will act as a navigator to link people to the services they need. In addition, the Red Cross will offer wellness check-ins for Nova Scotians who are isolated and experiencing loneliness and anxiety

-- private campgrounds must close until May 1, when the measure will be reassessed

-- only veterinarians working with the SPCA may carry out spay and neuter surgeries

-- the order under the Health Protection Act has been amended to require workers in the fishing and offshore industries to self-isolate when they enter the province

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200409005 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200409006. An FAQ with information on the amendments to the order is attached.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZK7dEdQ-Vec and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang is available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 12,177 negative test results, 373 positive COVID-19 test results and two deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Eighty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200409003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200409002.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

April 9     12:15 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province. Nova Scotia has recorded its second death related to COVID-19. On Wednesday, April 8, a woman in her 90s with underlying medical conditions died in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital as a result of complications related to COVID-19. Nova Scotia has 31 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 9, there are 373 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200409002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotia Reports Second Death, 31 New Cases of COVID-19

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Nova Scotia has recorded its second death related to COVID-19. On Wednesday, April 8, a woman in her 90s with underlying medical conditions died in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital as a result of complications related to COVID-19.

 

"The death of a loved one is never easy. Unfortunately, this virus makes the loss of a family member all the more difficult," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I want to offer my sincere condolences to the family as they grieve. Together, we have the power to stop this disease." 

 

As of today, April 9, Nova Scotia has 373 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-one new cases were identified Wednesday, April 8.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 980 Nova Scotia tests on Wednesday, April 8 and is operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 12,177 negative test results, 373 positive COVID-19 test results and two deaths. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, four of those in ICU. Eighty-two individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

-- the first death in the province was on April 6 - a woman in her 70s with underlying medical conditions died in hospital in the Eastern Zone as a result of complications related to COVID-19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Download FAQ

Update - April 8

April 8      1:00 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 32 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 8, Nova Scotia has 342 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200408001.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19. The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Thirty-two New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, April 8, Nova Scotia has 342 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-two new cases were identified Tuesday, April 7.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed more than 700 Nova Scotia tests on Tuesday, April 7 and is now operating 24 hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why travel has been removed as a requirement for testing for COVID-19.

 

The list of symptoms being screened for has also expanded. If you have two or more of the following symptoms, visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for further assessment:

-- fever

-- new or worsening cough

-- sore throat

-- runny nose

-- headache

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 11,346 negative test results, 342 positive COVID-19 test results and one death. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital, five of those in ICU. Seventy-seven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, temporary primary assessment centres are operating in two communities

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

-- the first death in the province was on April 6 - a woman in her 70s with underlying medical conditions died in hospital in the Eastern Zone as a result of complications related to COVID-19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 7

April 7     12:30 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 17 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, April 7, Nova Scotia has 310 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200407004.

 

The province has also recorded its first COVID-19 death. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200407001 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200407002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m., which will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Seventeen New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 7, Nova Scotia has 310 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Seventeen new cases were identified Monday, April 6.

 

As reported earlier today, the province has also recorded its first death.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed more than 530 Nova Scotia tests on Monday, April 6 and is now operating 24-hours.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia have been connected to travel or a known case, there is now community spread. That is why we have removed travel as a requirement for testing for COVID-19. Visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if you should call 811 for assessment. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 10,621 negative test results, 310 positive COVID-19 test results and one death. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Eleven individuals are currently in hospital. Sixty-six individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, a temporary primary assessment centre is now operating in Elmsdale

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

-- the first death in the province was on April 6 - a woman in her 70s with underlying medical conditions died in hospital in the Eastern Zone as a result of complications related to COVID-19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 6

April 6, 2020   5:30 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, gave an update today, April 6, on efforts to help further protect the province's seniors and to expand testing criteria.

 

New measures announced today:

-- removing travel as a requirement to be referred for testing for COVID-19 now that community spread is present in Nova Scotia. An assessment is still required through 811, which will refer you to an assessment centre, if required. Visit https://811.novascotia.ca/ for more information

-- Dr. Strang has directed licensed long-term care homes to follow measures to further prevent the introduction of the virus into these homes and to reduce its spread if introduced to the facility. The directive includes a number of provisions, including cleaning, monitoring of residents and staff, testing, and reporting. The directive and the measures were provided to the sector today and are effective immediately

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200406004 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200406005.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZsGdWc-BQM and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 10,218 negative test results and 293 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Sixty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200406003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200406002.

 

April 6     12:45 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 31 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. The lab will begin 24/7 operations today. As of today, April 6, Nova Scotia has 293 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200406002.  

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Thirty-one New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

-----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 6, Nova Scotia has 293 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Thirty-one new cases were identified Sunday, April 5.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 650 Nova Scotia tests on Sunday, April 5.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. The lab will begin 24/7 operations today, April 6.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 10,218 negative test results and 293 positive COVID-19 test results. Confirmed cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital. Sixty-four individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19, they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/ to determine if they should call 811. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to issue orders and directives to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and extended to April 19

-- there are 22 primary assessment centres in Nova Scotia: 21 operated by Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and one operated by the IWK Health Centre, a temporary primary assessment centre is now operating in Elmsdale

-- two mobile assessment centres are being established by NSHA to do community-based testing; Emergency Health Services operates two field assessment units, one in Halifax Regional Municipality and one in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 5

April 5, 2020   3:45 PM

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang announced more options for testing of COVID-19 to help identify spread within Nova Scotia communities. The province will work with the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and Emergency Health Services (EHS) on the following options: temporary primary assessment centres, EHS assessment units, a mobile assessment centre, and expanded lab testing.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200405003 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200405004.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov and a short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov.

 

Updated information for employers to help their staff and clients stay healthy and prevent the spread of COVID-19 is now available online, including what to do if you have safety concerns, and what happens if someone at your workplace tests positive for COVID-19. You can find that information here: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/working-during-covid-19/ and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/working-during-covid-19/fr/.  

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 9,510 negative test results and 262 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is now available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200405001 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200405002.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

April 5     1:45 PM

 

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 26 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. Processing at the lab is moving to 24/7 operations on Monday, April 6. As of today, April 5, Nova Scotia has 262 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200405002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update at about 3 p.m. This update will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-six New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 5, Nova Scotia has 262 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-six new cases were identified Saturday, April 4.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 592 Nova Scotia tests on Saturday, April 4.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. Processing at the lab is moving to 24/7 operations on Monday, April 6.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 9,510 negative test results and 262 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under ten to over 90. Six individuals are currently in hospital. Fifty-three individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/ and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to issue orders and directives to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and recently extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 4

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 29 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. Processing at the lab is moving to 24/7 operations on Monday, April 6. As of today, April 4, Nova Scotia has 236 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200404002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update tomorrow, Sunday, April 5, at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Should you not wish to receive these updates, please contact us at covid19info@novascotia.ca to be removed from the distribution list. 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-nine New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 4, Nova Scotia has 236 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-nine new cases were identified Friday, April 3.

 

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab completed 800 Nova Scotia tests on Friday, April 3.  

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia to date have been connected to travel or a known case, it is now known there is community spread. This is expected and why the testing strategy continues to be adjusted. Part of that is increasing lab capacity. Processing at the lab is moving to 24/7 operations on Monday, April 6.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 8,964 negative test results and 236 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under ten to over 80. Four individuals are currently in hospital. Fifty individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/ and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to issue orders and directives to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and recently extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 3

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 14 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present. As of today, April 3, Nova Scotia has 207 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200403002.  

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov.

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Should you not wish to receive these updates, please contact us at covid19info@novascotia.ca to be removed from the distribution list. 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Fourteen New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 3, Nova Scotia has 207 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Fourteen new cases were identified Thursday, April 2 and almost 900 COVID-19 tests were completed at the QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 8,234 negative test results and 207 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under ten to over 80. Five individuals are currently in hospital. Twenty-one individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/  and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to issue orders and directives to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and recently extended to April 19

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 2

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, gave an update today, April 2, on efforts to help Nova Scotians dealing with COVID-19.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syiW1isUqOM. A short audio recap from Dr. Strang will be available shortly at https://anchor.fm/nsgov .

 

Highlights of new measures announced today are outlined below:

-- a $20 million Worker Emergency Bridge Fund to help the self-employed and those laid-off workers who do not qualify for Employment Insurance. Government will provide a one-time, $1,000 payment, to bridge the gap between layoffs and closures and the federal government's Canada Emergency Response Benefit

-- $20 million to fund a new program -- the Small Business Impact Grant. Eligible small businesses and social enterprises will receive a grant of 15 per cent of their gross revenues -- either from April 2019 or February 2020, up to a maximum of $5,000. This flexible, one-time, upfront grant can be used for any purpose necessary

-- the current state of emergency is extended until noon, April 19

-- a new extended hours phone line has been set up for people wanting information on income assistance eligibility from the Department of Community Services. Call toll-free 1-833-722-1417 from Monday to Friday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During regular business hours, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. call the regular toll-free line at 1-877-424-1177.

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200402005 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200402006.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 7,446 negative test results and 193 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under 10 to over 80. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is now available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200402003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200402004.

 

A new fact sheet on social distancing best practices has been developed and is available in English at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/docs/social-distancing-best-practices.pdf and in French at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/docs/social-distancing-best-practices-fr.pdf.

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 20 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present. As of today, April 2, Nova Scotia has 193 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200402004.  

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

  

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS-Twenty New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 2, Nova Scotia has 193 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty new cases were identified Wednesday, April 1, and 900 COVID-19 tests were completed at the QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 7,446 negative test results and 193 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under ten to over 80. Five individuals are currently in hospital. Sixteen individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. A map and graphic presentation of the case data is now available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/data .

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/  and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - April 1

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 26 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present. As of today, April 1, Nova Scotia has 173 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200401002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed at: https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

Please share this information with your staff, board members and stakeholders. We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Should you not wish to receive these updates, please contact us at covid19info@novascotia.ca to be removed from the distribution list. 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty-Six New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, April 1, Nova Scotia has 173 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty-six new cases were identified Tuesday, March 31, and more than 1,000 COVID-19 tests were completed at the QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab.

 

While most cases in Nova Scotia are connected to travel or a known case, as reported previously, there is one confirmed case of community transmission and more cases are expected to present.

 

Of the 26 new cases of COVID-19, one is a staff member at The Magnolia residential care home in Enfield. That makes three staff members and two residents of The Magnolia who have tested positive. The residents are in isolation and staff members are isolating at home. All residents are being monitored for symptoms of COVID-19 including temperature checks twice daily. To date, two other nursing homes in Nova Scotia each have one staff member who has tested positive. They are isolating at home and appropriate infection prevention and control measures are in place at facilities across the province.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 6,591 negative test results and 173 confirmed cases. Those cases range in age from under ten to over 80. Five individuals are currently in hospital. Eleven individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province.

 

Public health is working to identify and test people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/ and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - March 31

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 20 new COVID-19 cases. As reported yesterday, public health has concluded that one case is the result of transmission within the community. To date, four staff and two residents of long-term care facilities have tested positive for COVID-19. Appropriate infection prevention and control measures are in place for both residents and staff. As of today, March 31, Nova Scotia has 147 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200331002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

-----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, March 31, Nova Scotia has 147 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

 

Twenty new cases were identified Monday, March 30. Most cases are connected to travel or a known case. As reported yesterday, public health has concluded that one case is the result of transmission within the community. To date, four staff and two residents of long-term care facilities have tested positive for COVID-19. Appropriate infection prevention and control measures are in place for both residents and staff.

 

It is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

The individuals affected range in age from under ten to over 80. Four individuals are currently in hospital. Ten individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province.

 

Public health is working to identify people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/  and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 5,763 negative test results and 147 confirmed cases.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

 

Update - March 30

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 5 new COVID-19 cases. While most cases to date have been connected to travel or a known case, public health has now reached a point with one of its current investigations where no such links can be made and must conclude that this case is the result of transmission within the community. As of today, March 30, Nova Scotia has 127 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200330002.

 

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update today at about 3 p.m.

 

This update will be livestreamed on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

 

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

 

---------

NEWS RELEASE:

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Five New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, March 30, Nova Scotia has 127 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

 

Five new cases were identified yesterday, after more than 600 tests were processed. While most cases to date have been connected to travel or a known case, public health has now reached a point with one of its current investigations where no such links can be made and must conclude that this case is the result of transmission within the community.

 

While this is not unexpected, it is now more important than ever for Nova Scotians to strictly adhere to the public health orders and directives - practise good hygiene, maintain a physical distance of two metres or six feet from others, limit essential gatherings to no more than five people and stay at home as much as possible.

 

The individuals affected range in age from under ten to mid-70's. Four individuals are currently in hospital. Ten individuals have now recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province.

 

Public health is working to identify people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

 

Anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/  and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 5,054 negative test results and 127 confirmed cases.

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

-- under the state of emergency government can control or prohibit assembly as well as travel to and from areas. It can also coordinate commerce activity and emergency responders

-- a new virus like COVID-19 can cause fear. Nova Scotians are encouraged to support each other and use technology to stay connected

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).

Update - March 29

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, chief medical officer of health, will provide an update today at about 12:30 p.m.

This update will be livestreamed on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast.

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov.

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nshealth and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

NEWS RELEASE

 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twelve New Cases of COVID-19

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As of today, March 29, Nova Scotia has 122 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

 

Twelve new cases were identified yesterday. Most are connected to travel or a known case.

 

Public health is working to identify people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days. At this point, public health cannot confirm community spread as several cases are still under investigation.

 

The 12 individuals affected range in age from under 10 to mid-70s. Three individuals are currently in hospital. Seven individuals have recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province.

 

A non-resident at the Magnolia residential care home in Enfield has tested positive. Residents, their families and staff at the facility have been notified. Public Health is continuing to investigate and is working closely with the facility administrators. While no residents or other staff are showing symptoms, some are now in self-isolation as a precautionary measure and close contacts are being tested. There are no cases of COVID-19 among residents of long-term care facilities in Nova Scotia.

 

"I am still hearing stories of people driving to our parks and beaches - even though they are closed. Grocery stores packed, groups out playing sports," said Premier McNeil. "These people are the reckless few and not only are Dr. Strang and I upset with them, their fellow Nova Scotians are upset with them. To those reckless few: if you won't do your part to keep physical distance to help flatten the curve, police will do it for you."

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 4,731 negative test results and 122 confirmed cases.

 

It is imperative that anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia self-isolate for 14 days and for everyone to adhere to the five-person social gathering limit. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/ and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

"The recent cases in the homes for seniors is a strong reminder that our older population is more vulnerable: They need our help and they deserve our vigilance," said Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia's medical officer of health. "Everyone has to take great care if they know they will be in contact with our vulnerable people, like our seniors and those with autoimmune issues. If you are feeling unwell at all, it is very important that you stay home and maintain social distancing."

 

If you have travelled outside of Nova Scotia or have been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/ .

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

-- under the state of emergency government can control or prohibit assembly as well as travel to and from areas. It can also coordinate commerce activity and emergency responders

-- a new virus like COVID-19 can cause fear. Nova Scotians are encouraged to support each other and use technology to stay connected

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

Update - March 28

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 20 new COVID-19 cases; most are travel-related or connected to earlier cases. At this point, public health cannot confirm community spread as several cases are still under investigation. As of today, March 28, Nova Scotia has 110 cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200328003.

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nsheath and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

NEWS RELEASE:

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Twenty New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, March 28, Nova Scotia has 110 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

 

Twenty new cases were identified Friday, March 27. Most are connected to travel or a known case.

 

Public health is working to identify people who may have come in close contact with the confirmed cases. Those individuals who have been confirmed are being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days. At this point, public health cannot confirm community spread as several cases are still under investigation.

 

The 110 individuals affected range in age from under ten to mid-70's. Three individuals are currently in hospital. Four individuals have recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province.

 

An employee at R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home in Antigonish has tested positive for COVID-19, while an employee at Lewis Hall, a private retirement living community in Dartmouth, has also tested positive.

 

All residents, their families and staff at both facilities have been notified. Public Health is continuing to investigate and is working closely with the facility administrators. While no residents or other staff are showing symptoms, some are now in self-isolation as a precautionary measure and close contacts are being tested. There are no cases of COVID-19 among residents of long-term care facilities in Nova Scotia.

 

"The weekend is here and we need to be more vigilant than ever. We can't let our guard down," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Only go out if necessary and obey the physical distancing rules. And stay connected with your loved ones and neighbours. We will all get through this together."

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 4,031 negative test results and 110 confirmed cases.

 

It is imperative that anyone who has travelled outside Nova Scotia self-isolate for 14 days and for everyone to adhere to the five-person social gathering limit. As always, any Nova Scotian who develops symptoms of acute respiratory illness should limit their contact with others until they feel better. If they are concerned about COVID-19 they can go to https://811.novascotia.ca/  and use the online assessment tool. Anyone referred to an assessment site by 811 will be tested.

 

"Given the number of returning travellers, including snowbirds, and more testing being done, an increase in cases is expected," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "We're three weeks into our response and I know this is hard for everyone. Please continue to be part of flattening the curve by following public health advice and direction."

 

If you have travelled outside of Nova Scotia or been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/ .

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

 

Additional Quotes:

"The health and safety of our residents and staff are our top priority and with the increased risks of COVID-19 on our resident population, we have been taking measures to protect them. Once we were notified of a case within our staff, we reacted quickly to take the appropriate steps to further protect, test and monitor our residents and support several of our staff to self-isolate and protect themselves from the potential risk. We will continue to be diligent through these uncertain times."

     -- Michelle Thompson, CEO, R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

 

"While this has been an unsettling day for the residents, families and team members at Lewis Hall, we have been preparing our teams for this circumstance for some time. We took early and concrete steps to implement our pandemic plan, including strict employee screening measures, visitor restrictions, and reinforcing our infection prevention and control practices. Today, we moved quickly in collaboration with Public Health to notify residents, families and team members, and have taken additional appropriate precautions when interacting with residents."

     -- Jason Shannon, President and COO, Shannex

 

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

-- under the state of emergency government can control or prohibit assembly as well as travel to and from areas. It can also coordinate commerce activity and emergency responders

-- a new virus like COVID-19 can cause fear. Nova Scotians are encouraged to support each other and use technology to stay connected

 

Additional Resources:

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

 

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free)

 

Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)

 

 

Update - March 27

Premier Stephen McNeil and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang provided an update earlier today, March 27, on efforts to help Nova Scotians dealing with COVID-19. A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6smk2RERV4.

 

Highlights of measures announced today are outlined below:

-          government is encouraging retail and commercial landlords to defer lease payments for the next three months for businesses that had to close directly due to the public health order. Landlords who participate by granting such businesses a three month deferral and register by April 3 will be able to claim losses of up to $5,000 per month, if the renting business does not continue operating. Landlords are not permitted to change locks or seize property of businesses who cannot pay rent, if the business closed directly because of COVID-19 public health orders

-          Department of Health and Wellness will distribute up to 800 iPads across the province to long-term care homes so residents can connect with family and friends; the tablets will begin arriving at facilities in April.

-          restaurants will be allowed to include alcohol purchases with takeout and delivery orders as long as the alcohol cost is not more than three times the value of food ordered, effective March 30.

-          an amendment to Dr. Strang’s health protection order allows veterinarians to provide virtual care, prescription refills and in-patient urgent or emergencies services.

 

Measures announced to help vulnerable Nova Scotians by the Department of Community Services are:

-          partnering with Telus to provide 100 phones and calling plans to most-vulnerable clients who have no other means of communication and who may be self-isolated and alone at a cost of $50,000 for the phones and $5,000 per month for the calling plans

-          investing $200,000 to support transition houses as well as other organizations that serve vulnerable women and children

-          investing $55,000 to support 12 smaller community food banks

-          extending the hours of its toll-free line for income assistance supports soon, including weekends

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200327004 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200327005.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 3,649 negative test results and 90 confirmed cases. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200327003 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200327002.

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nsheath and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

Update - March 26

March 26, 2020   6:15 PM

 

Premier Stephen McNeil, chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang, NSHA president and CEO Dr. Brendan Carr, and IWK Health Centre president and CEO Dr. Krista Jangaard provided an update earlier today, March 26, on the health system and efforts to help Nova Scotians dealing with COVID-19.

 

A recording of the news conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBBv0KvCmcc. A short audio recap from Dr. Strang is available at https://anchor.fm/nsgov .

 

Details of measures announced today are outlined below:

 

Testing to confirm COVID-19 is being expanded to include:

-- anyone referred by 811 to an assessment centre

-- all close contacts of people who test positive

-- people in hospital that meet the criteria for testing

 

An alternate phone line has been set up to ensure health-care workers are virus-free, able to safely provide care and not burden the 811 system. The service deals with NSHA and IWK staff, home-care and long-term care providers, pharmacists and health providers in First Nations communities.

 

Other measures include:

-- reservations for the 2020 camping season are on hold; an announcement will made when they are available

-- open fires are banned for any purpose in woods or within 305 metres of woods in any part of the province and will be in effect until May 15 (the public can report wildfires by calling 911 in an emergency or by calling 1-800-565-2224)

 

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200326003 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200326004.

 

To date, Nova Scotia has 3,201 negative test results and 73 confirmed cases. The news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200326002 and in French at https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200326001.

 

 

We also ask for your support on social media by sharing accurate information from the Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Government social media channels. Follow them @nsheath and @nsgov on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/NovaScotiaHealthAndWellness/ and https://www.facebook.com/nsgov/ on Facebook.

 

Should you not wish to receive these updates, please contact us at covid19info@novascotia.ca to be removed from the distribution list. 

 

Thank you for your interest and support.

 

 

Update – March 23

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of 13 new COVID-19 cases. As of today, March 23, Nova Scotia has 41 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The news release is also available in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200323002

Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, will provide an update today, March 23, at 3 p.m.

This update will be livestreamed on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast .

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov


NEWS RELEASE:

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--13 New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, March 23, Nova Scotia has 41 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Thirteen new cases were identified Sunday, March 22. The cases are travel-related or related to earlier reported cases. Several of the new cases are connected and involve groups or families who have returned to Nova Scotia following travel outside of Canada.

The 41 individuals affected range in age from under ten to mid-70's. Cases have been identified in all parts of the province. One individual remains in hospital. At this point, there has been no spread within communities.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and are working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

The QEII Health Sciences Centre's microbiology lab is now certified to report positive and negative tests for COVID-19. Tests no longer have to be sent to the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. To date, Nova Scotia has 2,308 negative test results and 41 confirmed cases.

Anyone who has travelled outside of Nova Scotia must self-isolate for 14 days. If you have travelled outside of Nova Scotia or been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels.

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

-- a state of emergency was declared under the Emergency Management Act on March 22 and remains in effect until noon, April 5

-- under the state of emergency government can control or prohibit assembly as well as travel to and from areas. It can also coordinate commerce activity and emergency responders

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

State of Emergency Declaration: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/Declaration-of-Provincial-State-of-Emergency-by-Minister-Porter-Signed-March-22-2020.pdf

Update – March 21

NEWS RELEASE:

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--Six New Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, March 21, Nova Scotia has nine confirmed cases and 12 presumptive cases of COVID-19, for a total of 21.

Six new cases were identified Friday, March 20. All are travel-related. The original hospitalized case has been released and is recovering at home. One of the other confirmed cases is hospitalized.

The cases are located across the province. The 21 individuals affected range in age from late-teens to mid-70's.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and are working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

"This is an unprecedented time for all of us and I want to thank Nova Scotians for their cooperation given the disruption to all of our daily lives," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "If we follow public health advice, support our neighbors, friends and family, and do our part, we will slow the spread of this virus in our province."


 The province is testing daily, working with partners at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. To date, Nova Scotia has 1,826 negative test results, 12 presumptive positive cases and nine confirmed cases.

"This is just the beginning for Nova Scotia and we all need to stay vigilant, practise good hygiene and social distancing, and self-isolate for 14 days if you have travelled outside Canada or are feeling unwell," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health. "The prevention measures we've put in place can work and there is still time for our actions to influence the impact that COVID-19 has on Nova Scotia."

As of today, dentists can no longer practice dentistry in their offices unless they deem it necessary to perform an emergency dental procedure in the best interest of the patient's health. This is an order under the Health Protection Act.

In addition to prevention measures put in place by government and the chief medical officer of health, the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre have taken steps to ensure the health system is ready to respond to COVID-19, including:

-- making changes to non-essential services so staff are available to focus on COVID-19 and essential services, such as cancer care

-- providing options for virtual care and telehealth care so doctors and other health-care providers can reduce face-to-face visits but also help patients regardless of where they are

-- restricting visitors to protect the vulnerable patients in our hospitals

-- providing support to public health as they give advice on measures to slow down the spread of the virus

-- ensuring facilities are well-prepared to meet the health-care needs of Nova Scotians during a pandemic

-- opening new assessment centres to meet the need for assessments (there are now 14 centres around the province)

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada must self-isolate for 14 days when they return to Nova Scotia. If you have been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Quotes:

"Our teams are working very hard to maintain essential services and deliver safe and supportive care in a challenging environment. The difficult decisions that we've made to reduce services and limit access to our facilities will help ensure we can continue to provide the most urgently needed care and create capacity in the system for Nova Scotians needing care related to COVID-19, while protecting the health and wellness of our staff and physicians."

     - Dr. Brendan Carr, president and CEO, Nova Scotia Health Authority

"We had to reduce the number of people who enter the health centre, which was a difficult decision for us to make as we pride ourselves on being patient and family centred. This decision and others are important as we decrease foot traffic and support social distancing in facilities, like the IWK, to keep patients, their families and our staff safe."

     - Dr. Krista Jangaard, president and CEO, IWK Health Centre

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

Nova Scotia Health Authority: http://www.nshealth.ca/coronavirus

IWK: http://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/COVID-19

Update – March 20

Included below is a news release recently issued by the province outlining the details of one additional presumptive COVID-19 case. There are now 15 cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia.

Premier Stephen McNeil, Minister of Business Geoff MacLellan, and chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang will provide an update at about 3 p.m.

This update will be livestreamed at https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast .

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov


 

NEWS RELEASE:

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS--One New Presumptive Case of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

----------------------------------------------------------------

As of today, Nova Scotia has five confirmed cases and ten presumptive cases of COVID-19, for a total of 15.

One new case was identified Thursday, March 19. It is travel-related.

The cases are located across the province. The 15 individuals affected range in age from mid-20's to mid-70's.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and are working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

The province is testing daily, working with partners at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. To date, Nova Scotia has 1,546 negative test results, ten presumptive positive cases and five confirmed cases.

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada must self-isolate for 14 days when they return to Nova Scotia. If you have been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Details of measures announced to help Nova Scotians and Nova Scotia businesses dealing with COVID-19 are outlined below:

Effective immediately, government will invest $161 million to address cash flow and access to credit for small and medium-sized businesses in Nova Scotia.

Government will defer payments until June 30 for:

-- all government loans, including those under the Farm Loan Board, Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board, Jobs Fund, Nova Scotia Business Fund, Municipal Finance Corp. and Housing Nova Scotia.

-- small business fees, including business renewal fees and workers compensation premiums (a list of fees will be posted online early next week)

Changes to the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program, administered through credit unions, include:

-- deferring principal and interest payments until June 30

-- enhancing the program to make it easier for businesses to access credit up to $500,000

-- those who might not qualify for a loan, government will guarantee the first $100,000

Further measures include:

-- small businesses which do business with the government will be paid within five days instead of the standard 30 days

-- suspending payments on Nova Scotia student loans for six months, from March 30 to Sept. 30 and students do not have to apply

-- ensuring more Nova Scotians can access the internet to work from home, by providing $15 million as an incentive to providers to speed up projects under the Internet for Nova Scotia Initiative and complete them as soon as possible

 

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397 Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices

Update – March 19

Late this afternoon, government shared the release below with media. As of today, March 19, Nova Scotia has five confirmed cases and nine presumptive cases of COVID-19, for a total of 14. Two new cases were identified Wednesday, March 18. Both are travel-related. The cases are located across the province. Northern Nova Scotia remains the only region without a positive case of COVID-19 at this time. The 14 individuals affected range in age from early 30's to mid-70's.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and are working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days. The province is testing daily, working with our partners at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. To date, Nova Scotia has 1,373 negative test results, nine presumptive positive cases and five confirmed cases.

A recording of the news conference is available on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov.  


 

COVID-19/HEALTH/WELLNESS/COMMUNITY/SERVICES/SENIORS--Measures to Help Vulnerable Nova Scotians

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Premier Stephen McNeil, Community Services Minister Kelly Regan and Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, announced today, March 19, measures to help vulnerable Nova Scotians and to further prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the province.

Measures announced today to help vulnerable Nova Scotians include:

-- investing $2.2 million so that every individual and family member on income assistance will receive an additional $50 starting Friday, March 20, to help pay for food, cleaning supplies and personal care items. People do not need to apply.

-- $1 million to help Feed Nova Scotia purchase food and hire more staff

-- no tenant can be evicted because their income has been impacted by COVID-19, effective immediately for the next three months

-- emergency funding of $230,000 for Senior Safety Programs and Community Links to help vulnerable older adults

-- university students from Nova Scotia who are still living in residences need to go home, to provide space for social distancing for those students from outside the province who are not able to travel

As announced yesterday, personal service and fitness establishments such as hair salons, barber shops, spas, nail salons, body art establishments and gyms must shut down by midnight tonight

The Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) said today there was a case of low-risk public exposure to COVID-19 at two Halifax locations March 5 - 7. People who attended a high school basketball tournament at Halifax Grammar School gymnasium and the Homburg Athletic Centre gymnasium at Saint Mary's University should closely monitor their health for COVID-19 symptoms. More information at http://www.nshealth.ca/news/nsha-advising-potential-covid-19-exposure-two-halifax-locations

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada must self-isolate for 14 days when they return to Nova Scotia. If you have been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

Nova Scotia Health Authority: https://www.nshealth.ca

IWK Health Centre: http://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

 

Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices

 

Update – March 18

Premier Stephen McNeil, chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang, and Health and Wellness Minister Randy Delorey will provide an update today, March 18, at about 3 p.m.

This update will be livestreamed at https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast .

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

NEWS RELEASE:

HEALTH/WELLNESS--Five New Presumptive Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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As of today, Nova Scotia has three confirmed cases and nine presumptive cases of COVID-19.


 Five new cases were identified Tuesday, March 17. Four of the cases are travel-related and one is connected to an earlier case. 

The 12 individuals affected range in age from early 30's to mid-70's. They are all in self-isolation and recovering at home.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days. They are located across the province. Northern Nova Scotia is the only region without a positive case of COVID-19 at this time.

The province is testing daily, working with our partners at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. To date, Nova Scotia has 1,141 negative test results, nine presumptive positive cases and three confirmed cases.

Details of additional measures announced to further prevent the spread of COVID-19 and increase capacity within the health system to respond are outlined below: 

Effective immediately:

-- doctors and pharmacists have new options for virtual care, using telephone and secure videoconferencing

-- pharmacists can renew prescriptions for most medications and government will cover the assessment fee

-- employers cannot require a doctor's note if an employee must be off work 

-- College of Physicians and Surgeons waiving the fee for retired doctors to renew their licences so they can come back to work

-- retired and other nurses are being brought into the system to assist with 811 staffing 

-- all service providers funded through the Department of Community Services' Disability Support Program - including social enterprises, day programs, and supported employment programs for adults with diverse abilities - will close to participants and the public

Effective midnight, Thursday, March 19:

-- personal service and fitness establishments such as hair salons, barber shops, spas, nail salons, body art establishments and gyms must shut down

The full news release is available at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200318004 and in French at: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200318005

NSHA and IWK have further restricted visitors and instituted other measures like online mental health supports and more assessment centres. More information is available at the links below:

NSHA Operational Update

IWK Health Centre to Issue a “No Visitors” Policy

A number of new resources have been developed for businesses and individuals, including:

Prevent the spread of COVID-19 (printable poster) - https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/COVID-19-Prevention-EN.pdf 

Information on how to self-isolate (fact sheet) - https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/Self-Isolation-Information-for-Travellers-EN.pdf 

Information on social distancing (fact sheet) - https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/Social-Distancing-EN.pdf 

These materials are also available in French: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/fr/

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada must self-isolate for 14 days when they return to Nova Scotia. If you have been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough you should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Today's update will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. on https://novascotia.ca/stayinformed/webcast , @nsgov Facebook and YouTube channels

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory asking Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397 Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices

Update – March 17

NEWS RELEASE:

HEALTH/WELLNESS--New Presumptive Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s chief medical officer of health has announced two new presumptive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of positives in the province to seven.


 

As of today, March 17, Nova Scotia has 934 negative test results, six presumptive positive cases and one confirmed case

The two new presumptive cases are travel-related and connected to earlier cases.

One of the initial three presumptive positive cases have now been confirmed by the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg.

The affected individuals are in self-isolation and recovering at home.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

Details of additional measures announced to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia are outlined in the following news releases recently issued by the province, NSHA and IWK:

 

1. Province’s Bars to Close, Restaurants Limited to Take-out, Delivery as of Thursday; Gatherings Limited to 50 or Fewer Effective Immediately – March 17, 2020 

Effectively immediately, there are to be no gatherings of more than 50 people.

The measures below come into effect at 12:01 a.m., Thursday, March 19:

-- restaurants are restricted to take-out and delivery only and no in-person dining 

-- drinking establishments, winery and distillery tasting rooms and craft taprooms must close

-- private liquor stores can continue to operate and craft breweries, wineries and distilleries can continue to sell their product from their storefronts 

https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200317005

 

2. Closure of Access Nova Scotia and Registry of Motor Vehicle Offices, Deadline Extension – March 17, 2020 

Access Nova Scotia and Registry of Motor Vehicle Offices are temporarily closing for one week starting Wednesday, March 18, to establish new ways of providing service to minimize contact between people.

https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200317003

 

Fermeture des centres Accès Nouvelle-Écosse et des Bureaux des véhicules automobiles, report des dates d'expiration

https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200317004

 

3. Many NSHA services reduced or suspended as part of COVID-19 response - March 17, 2020 

Many Nova Scotia Health Authority services are being reduced or suspended until further notice as part of the effort to contain the spread of COVID-19 as well as to conserve and redeploy our resources in anticipation of increasing demand related to the pandemic.

http://www.nshealth.ca/news/many-nsha-services-reduced-or-suspended-part-covid-19-response

 

4. IWK Health Centre to suspend all non-urgent services - effective March 18th - March 17, 2020

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the IWK Health Centre will be suspending all non-urgent services effective tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18, 2020, Dr. Krista Jangaard, IWK President & CEO, announced today.

http://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/childrens-health/news

 

5. NSLC to reduce hours: 

https://www.mynslc.com/en/About-NSLC/Media-Centre/News-Releases/NSLC-Adjusts-Store-Hours-Due-To-COVID-19

 

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada or has been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/ .

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Quick Facts:

-- testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus  

-- the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory asking Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice

-- Nova Scotia’s Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html  

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397

Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices

Update – March 16

NEWS RELEASE:

HEALTH/WELLNESS--Two New Presumptive Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia

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Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health has announced two new presumptive cases of COVID-19 bringing the total number of presumptive positives in the province to five.


The two cases are in Halifax Regional Municipality and are related. The case details include:

-- a male and female, both in their 50's, were in close contact with individuals who had recently travelled outside the country

-- two other individuals in the household are now in self-isolation and being tested

The affected individuals are in self-isolation and recovering at home.

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and working to identify others who may have come in close contact with them. Those individuals are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada or has been in close contact with someone who has travelled and are experiencing fever (above 38 C) and/or new cough should complete the online questionnaire before calling 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Quick Facts:

-- as of March 16, Nova Scotia has completed 676 tests for COVID-19, with 671 negative results and five presumptive positive cases. Testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory asking Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397 Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices

A recording of the news conference will be available shortly after it concludes on the NS Gov Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/nsgov

 

Update – March 15

NEWS RELEASE:

HEALTH/WELLNESS--First Presumptive Cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia; New Prevention Measures

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Nova Scotia announced the province's first three presumptive cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), today, March 15. The province is also taking further measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The cases are not connected and are travel related. The individuals followed all the proper procedures when they started to feel unwell.


 "My thoughts are with the individuals affected and I wish them a speedy and thorough recovery. Now, more than ever, all Nova Scotians must follow public health direction - that's how we will reduce the spread of this virus in our province," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "We need to work together to protect our most vulnerable."

Two individuals are in the Halifax Regional Municipality and one is in Kings County. All three are managing their symptoms at home in self-isolation. Details include:

-- a female in her 60's, who returned to Halifax from Australia on March 8.

-- a male in his late 50's, who recently attended a conference in California and returned to Halifax on March 13.

-- a male in his 30's, who returned to Halifax on March 10 following travel throughout Europe.     

Public health has been in contact with these individuals and those who have come in close contact with them are also being directed to self-isolate at home, away from the public, for 14 days.

Additional prevention measures for Nova Scotians are in effect immediately under the authority of the Health Protection Act and include:

--long-term care facilities closed to visitors effectively immediately

-- public schools closed for two weeks following March Break (weeks of March 23 and March 30) and then will be reassessed

-- regulated child care centres closed March 17 to April 3 and then will be reassessed

-- March break camps cancelled

-- casinos in Halifax and Sydney are closed as of 12 am March 16 and bar owners can no longer operating VLTs

-- anyone who travelled outside of Canada must self-isolate even if symptom-free

-- organizations and businesses must practise social distancing of two metres or six feet and keep gatherings below 150 or much smaller if possible. This applies to restaurants, bars, movie theatres and other gathering spots

Starting Monday, March 16, public health inspectors will be onsite at the Halifax International Airport and the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport. Work is ongoing with federal partners responsible for border security to strengthen the screening process. As well, both airports now have information on digital screens in all areas frequented by travellers.

Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information, handwashing posters and fact sheets at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus .

Quick Facts:

-- as of March 15, Nova Scotia has completed 418 tests for COVID-19, with 415 negative results and 3 presumptive positive cases. Testing numbers are updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus

-- the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory asking Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.

-- anyone who has travelled outside of Canada or has been in close contact with someone who has and are experiencing fever (above 38C) or cough should complete the online questionnaire to see whether you need to call 811. The online questionnaire can be found at: 811.novascotia.ca

-- Nova Scotia's Health Protection Act gives the chief medical officer of health the authority to give advice to protect public health and decrease risk to public health presented by communicable diseases such as COVID-19 --the public school system will be investigating virtual schools focused on essential curriculum to ensure Grade 12 students can graduate

Additional Resources:

The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html

Government of Canada: https://canada.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada toll-free information line 1-833-784-4397 Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices