Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald is encouraged by the continued low case counts in the province, but she warns against complacency.
There are no new cases of COVID-19 in Newfoundland and Labrador today, leaving five active cases.
Fitzgerald says COVID is a “stealthy virus” and it’s important to get tested, especially for those with symptoms.
“It is critical that we know every case of COVID,” says Fitzgerald, “to ensure that it’s contained quickly.” She warns against assuming that you could not have come into contact with the virus.
“We have had people taken completely by surprise after testing positive.”
She also emphasised the importance of the use of facemasks.
A non-medical face mask should be made of at least two layers of fabric, but three is better. It should cover the nose, mouth and chin and “if your mask is under your nose, it is not effective,” says Fitzgerald.
Premier Andrew Furey also addressed some of the concerns surrounding the safety of the vaccines.
He says the vaccines would not have received Health Canada approval after rigorous testing if they were not safe.
Dr. Allison Furey—Premier Furey’s wife—a front-line health care professional, has received both doses and is doing fine with no ill effects.