Public health measures continue as province looks toward ease back plan
Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, says Islanders need to continue following public health measures for the province to begin easing back restrictions.
Prince Edward Island’s ease back plan will be a delicate balance between relaxing measures and continuing to protect the vulnerable population and not overwhelming the health system.
Prince Edward Island has had a total of 26 cases of COVID-19, with 24 now recovered. PEI’s rate of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people is 19. All cases in have been related to travel outside the province.
Dr. Morrison reminded Islanders that all travel into the province must be essential. All essential workers travelling to the province must self-isolate when not working. Compassionate visits are being looked at on a case by case basis.
Health PEI’s Chief of Nursing, Marion Dowling, says work is now underway to coordinate a gradual reintroduction of health services. Individual services will each undergo a public health risk assessment.
Dowling reminded Islanders that anyone in PEI who is experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 should call their physician, nurse practitioner or call 811. For those experiencing non-Covid-19 related health issues, urgent or emergent care as well as other essential services, is still available.
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