Today (Saturday, August 22), Newfoundland and Labrador has no new confirmed cases of COVID-19. The province has no active cases.

Two hundred and sixty-five people have recovered from the virus.

To date, 29,899 people have been tested.

The department is reminding the public about changes effective Monday, August 24 to gatherings and mask use.

Gatherings

Indoor gatherings, organized by a recognized business or organization, are expanded to a maximum of 100 people or 50 per cent of the venue’s capacity.

Outdoor gatherings, organized by a recognized business or organization, are expanded to a maximum of 100 people.

These types of gatherings may include weddings, funerals, festivals, concerts, faith gatherings, recreational activities, and theatre performances. Physical distancing must be maintained at these events.

Organizers are required to keep a record of all people in attendance for two weeks following the event. This is in case it is needed for contact tracing.

People should also be aware that gatherings, not organized by a recognized business or organization, such as a backyard family barbeque, are still only allowed a maximum of 50 people.

Masks

Wearing a non-medical mask that covers the nose and mouth will be mandatory for people five years old and above in public indoor places.

A detailed list of what public indoor places are included in this order and the qualifying exceptions for not wearing a mask can be found here.

This action is being taken to protect families and communities, vulnerable populations and schools as people begin to move about more frequently and have more daily interaction.

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;
• 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