Province confirms three new cases of COVID-19

Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, has confirmed three new positive cases of COVID-19 for the province.

All three cases are males, two are in their 30s and one in his 40s. They are all essential workers employed in the same non-health care related industry. They travelled to PEI from outside the country and have been in self-isolation since they arrived in PEI on August 5. The men continue to do well and remain in self-isolation. They are being followed daily by public health nursing. They had very limited close contacts, and contact tracing is now complete. 

The three men travelled on Air Canada flight AC626 from Toronto to Halifax on August 5. Out of an abundance of caution, all passengers who travelled on this flight should monitor for symptoms.  If any passengers on this flight develop symptoms of COVID-19 they should call 811 to arrange for testing.

Additionally, Dr. Morrison also announced that, effective immediately, gathering limits for events are increasing to allow for up to three cohorts of 50 people to gather for an event such as a worship service, concert, and sporting events. The increase in gathering capacity is subject to an approved operation plan that ensures physical distancing and separate controlled entrances, exits and designated washrooms for each cohort. Organizations and groups wishing to host an event with three cohorts of 50 people should submit their operational plan to the Chief Public Health Officer for review at least two weeks in advance. 

Dr. Morrison confirmed that singing is also allowed with physical distancing of six feet between individuals and provided that non-medical masks are worn by those singing. This easing of a previous restriction will have a positive impact on worship services, choirs, music programs and events. 

Overall, Dr. Morrison reminded Islanders that the risk of individuals in the province contracting COVID-19 remains low. It is important that the province continues with measures and processes to keep Islanders safe, including: border security, pre-travel approval, self-isolation requirements, operation isolation and testing. It is also important that Islanders continue to practice physical distancing, good hand hygiene and that they wear a mask when in closed, indoor public spaces. 

Backgrounder: 
The Chief Public Health Office continues to work closely with the federal government, provincial and territorial counterparts, government departments and Health PEI to monitor the pandemic 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 continues to work collaboratively with the Chief Public Health Office, stakeholders and community partners in preparing for all COVID-19 related impacts 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:
Amanda Hamel
Executive Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Office of the Premier
902-368-4400
ahamel@gov.pe.ca