Today (Thursday, July 9), Newfoundland and Labrador has no new confirmed cases of COVID-19. The province continues to have no active cases.

Two hundred and fifty-eight people have recovered from the virus.

To date, 19,786 people have been tested.

The department wishes to provide the public with an update on the Special Measures Order for bar establishments that was reported on during yesterday’s media availability.

The Special Measures Order for bar establishments is available here on the province’s COVID-19 website.

Businesses with a license under the Liquor Control Act, whose primary purpose is the consumption of beer, wine, or spirits, can open in Alert Level 2.

These establishments must operate at maximum 50 per cent of their approved capacity, provided appropriate physical distancing is maintained at all times.

The use of dance floors for dancing is strictly prohibited.

Businesses are allowed to use the dance floor if they wish to set-up a seating area with tables and chairs, provided physical distancing of 2 metres between patrons seated at adjacent tables can be maintained.

It is the responsibility of businesses with a license to ensure compliance with this order.

Non-compliance could result in penalties being issued by the Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation.

In Alert Level 2, individuals should continue to practice good infection prevention and control practices.

Daily preventative actions can help to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

These actions include:

• Stay informed, be prepared, and follow public health advice;
• Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds;
• Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer in the absence of soap and water;
• Do not touch your face;
• Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette;
• Maintain physical distancing;
• Wear a non-medical mask or face covering when you are in public and unable to maintain physical distancing;
• Increase cleanliness and ventilation of public spaces and worksites; and,
• Stay home if you are sick and avoid contact with others.

For the most up-to-date information related to COVID-19, please visit www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19.

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 Media contact
Kathy Dicks-Peyton
Health and Community Services
709-729-6986, 699-1982
kathydickspeyton@gov.nl.ca