Today (Sunday, December 20), Newfoundland and Labrador has two new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
The first new confirmed case is a male in the Eastern Health region between 50-59 years of age. The case is travel-related. The individual, a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, returned to the province from work in the United States. The individual is self-isolating and contact tracing is underway.
The second new confirmed case is a male in the Central Health region between 50-59 years of age. The case is travel-related. The individual, a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, returned to the province from work in Alberta. The individual is self-isolating and contact tracing is underway.
Public Health is providing an update on three of the cases reported yesterday Saturday, December 19. The investigation is finished. The source of infection for all three cases is travel. One case had returned to the province from work in Saskatchewan, while a second case had returned to the province from work in Alberta. The third case was related to international travel.
Newfoundland and Labrador has 31 active cases of COVID-19.
There have been two recoveries since yesterday in the Eastern Health region meaning 344 people have recovered from the virus.
One person is in hospital due to the virus.
To date, 70,180 people have been tested.
Public Health is reminding people to strictly adhere to the orders from the Chief Medical Officer of Health. People must remain vigilant and follow all Public Health measures to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from the spread of COVID-19.
In Alert Level 2, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians should continue to practice good infection prevention and control practices.
These practices 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;
- Wear a non-medical mask in public indoor spaces;
- Maintain physical distancing;
- Increase cleanliness and ventilation of public spaces and worksites;
- Work from home, if possible; and,
- Stay home if you are sick and avoid contact with others.
Public Health is reminding people about the phrase People, Space, Time, and Place. People should always consider these four important reminders. They are especially important with the holidays approaching.
- People – The more people you interact with, the greater the risk of spread.
- Space – The closer you are to others, the greater the risk of spread.
- Time – The more time you spend with others, the greater the risk of spread.
- Place – Indoor activities with others are more risky than outdoor activities.
Public Health has prepared guidance on holiday activities. Holiday events or gatherings should be planned in accordance with Public Health guidelines. The guidance is available here.
People are reminded that COVID Alert is available for download free through the Apple or Google Play app stores. Public Health is encouraging people to download the app to help reduce the spread of the virus.
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
Tina Newhook
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca