One new confirmed case of COVID-19 in the province today.

It involves a woman between the ages of 20 and 39 in the Eastern Health region and she is a close contact of a previous travel-related case.

Officials have also confirmed that a case reported yesterday is travel-related. It involves a woman in her 40s in the Eastern Health region. The cause of that case was previously unknown and was under investigation.

That brings to 36 the total number of active cases in the province.

Premier Andrew Furey is urging Newfoundlanders and Labradorians not to panic as the number of cases rises. He says while it may feel like “we’re slipping back to March” government is focused on avoiding another lockdown. That requires compliance with public health advisories.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald says how we carry out activities now will have a dramatic impact on the potential spread of the virus.

She continues to hear of parties being planned for the holidays as per the norm, but states that this is a year unlike any other.

Fitzgerald believes people are holding on to the misconception that COVID may not be within their community because there’s currently no evidence of community spread. However, she cautions that parties may create perfect conditions for the virus to spread.

Essential Travel Only

Another reminder today that only essential travel to the province is allowed.

Dr. Fitzgerald says a new travel form goes live on the provincial government’s COVID-19 page tomorrow for those who want to come to the province. She says it will provide a faster and more efficient process for both travelers and border officials.

Any non-residents hoping to travel to the province must apply for and receive a travel exemption from Public Health.