Chief Public Health Officer asks Islanders to act responsibly this weekend

Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, is asking Islanders to remain diligent in their efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 this weekend.

Prince Edward Island still has 22 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, and four individuals are considered recovered. All cases have been related to international travel.

Dr. Morrison reiterated the importance of self-isolation and that failing to comply puts the individual, as well as others, at serious risk. Enforcement continues to issue warnings and fines. To report someone who is not self-isolating, call 1-800-958-6400.

All individuals requiring immediate medical attention, for reasons other than COVID-19, are reminded to visit the emergency department or call 911.

Health PEI’s Chief Nursing Officer, Marion Dowling, explained that Health PEI continues to offer essential services only. The essential services plan is re-evaluated every three weeks. Islanders are asked to call ahead for medical appointments.

Cough and fever clinics and drive thru clinics continue to see more patients in Charlottetown and Summerside. Yesterday, 129 patients were seen in Charlottetown and 51 in Summerside. Appointments to the cough and fever clinics are made by referral by family physicians, nurse practitioners or through 811.

For answers to general questions about COVID-19 call 1-833-533-9333 or visit: www.princeedwardisland.ca/covid19.

Backgrounder:

The Chief Public Health Office continues to work closely with the federal government, provincial and territorial counterparts, government departments and Health PEI to continue to monitor the situation globally, nationally and locally. The public health risk of COVID-19 is continually reassessed and Islanders will be updated as new information becomes available.

Government’s special situation response group also continues to work collaboratively with the Chief Public Health Office, stakeholders and community partners in preparing for all impacts related to COVID-19 to the province, including health, social and economic.

Everyone is encouraged to follow routine prevention measures:

Washing hands frequently with soap and water
Cough and sneeze into your elbow or a tissue
If ill with acute respiratory symptoms, stay home if possible
Limit touching your eyes, nose and mouth
Don’t share items like drinking glasses and water bottles
Frequently clean surfaces like taps, doorknobs and countertops

Media Contact:
Samantha Hughes
Health and Wellness
(902) 368-5610
shughes@gov.pe.ca

General Inquiries

Department of Health and Wellness
4th Floor North, Shaw Building
105 Rochford Street
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

Phone: 902-368-6414
Fax: 902-368-4121

DeptHW@gov.pe.ca