The Chief Medical Officer of Health is recommending people who have travelled outside the province in the last 14 days not visit hospitals, long-term care homes or personal care homes.

Elderly residents or patients, and those with a weakened immune system or underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19.

Anyone with cold or flu symptoms should also avoid visiting until their symptoms disappear.

Those infected with COVID-19 may have mild to severe symptoms. These symptoms may be similar to a cold or flu, and may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure.

Symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Anyone who has travelled outside the province where cases are occurring may have come in contact with COVID-19. If you are experiencing symptoms following out-of-province travel, please call 811 to speak to a registered nurse, and self-isolate.

Individuals feeling unwell or in self-isolation are reminded to:

• Avoid close contact with people with chronic conditions, compromised immune systems and older adults;
• Not have visitors to your home;
• Not attend social gatherings, work, school, or daycare;
• Not take public transit or taxis;
• Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently, for at least 20 seconds;
• Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available; and,
• Cover your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing or sneezing.

At this time, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Newfoundland and Labrador. More information on COVID-19 can be found here.

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Media contact
Tina Newhook
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca