A warning today from the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health about the public reaction to a new case of COVID-19 reported last week.
The person in question had returned to the province from the United States. That information prompted a negative outcry from some on social media.
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald says to be respectful. If people feel vilified, others will be reluctant to come forward about the virus. @VOCMNEWS
— Victoria Battcock (@VicBattcockVOCM) July 15, 2020
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald says it’s unrealistic to think that the province can avoid any new cases of COVID-19 and it’s important that consideration is given to those who are unfortunate enough to pick up the virus.
She understands people are scared, but those with the illness need “support and understanding, not judgement and disdain.”
Dr. Fitzgerald indicates she’s afraid that the vilification of those who contract COVID-19 will make others who are symptomatic reluctant to come forward.
There were no new cases reported in the province again today. 21,134 people have been tested in NL to-date.