Nova Scotia reports eight new cases of COVID-19 Saturday, active cases rise to 52

HALIFAX -

Nova Scotia is reporting eight new cases of COVID-19 Saturday, as well as three recoveries, as the active number of cases in the province rises to 52.

Four new cases were identified in the Central zone, involving close contacts of previously reported cases.

The four other cases were identified in the Eastern Zone, three involving close contacts of previously reported cases and one remains under investigation.

"I encourage all Nova Scotians to get tested regularly and ensure you continue to keep a physical distance and wear a mask. Get both doses of your vaccine as soon as you can, if you haven't already," said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health in a release. "Doing all of this will help limit spread of the virus and allow us to have a more normal summer." 

Public Health says there is now “limited community spread” in the Central zone. The Eastern, Northern and Western zones continue to be closely monitored for community spread.

"While we've seen case numbers in the single digits over the past few days, today's number is a reminder that we can't let our guard down," said Premier Iain Rankin. "This morning I dropped into the Fall River Shoppers Drug Mart, and owner Brian MacDonald told me about how well the vaccination program is rolling out. Thanks to him and all of our pharmacies for being part of our vaccine program and success in keeping COVID case numbers low. Get vaccinated; get tested." 

CASE DATA

Nova Scotia labs processed 2,913 tests on Friday, and have now processed a total of 951,797 since the start of the pandemic.

There have been 5,850 cumulative COVID-19 cases in Nova Scotia. Of those, 5,706 people have recovered, and 92 have died due to COVID-19.

According to the province's online dashboard, there are currently two individuals in hospital, with no one in an intensive care unit.

Since April 1, there have been 4,108 positive COVID-19 cases and 26 deaths. Of the new cases since April 1, 4,030 are now considered resolved.

There are cases confirmed across the province, but most have been identified in the Central zone, which contains the Halifax Regional Municipality.

The provincial government says cumulative cases by zone may change as data is updated in Panorama, the province’s electronic information system.

The numbers reflect where a person lives and not where their sample was collected.

• Western zone: 290 cases (no active cases)
• Central zone: 4,642 cases (38 active cases)
• Northern zone: 301 cases (no active cases)
• Eastern zone: 617 cases (14 active cases)

The provincial state of emergency, which was first declared on March 22, 2020, has been extended to July 11, 2021

VACCINE UPDATE

The province's COVID-19 online dashboard provides an update on the number of vaccines that have been administered to date.

As of Friday, 961,653 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered, with approximately 72.9 per cent of the province's overall population having received at least one dose. Of those, 253,331 Nova Scotians have received their second dose.

The province says it has received a total of 1,081,070 doses of COVID-19 vaccine since Dec. 15.

All Nova Scotians are encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as they are eligible. COVID-19 vaccination appointments can be made online or by phone at 1-833-797-7772.

MORE WALK-IN TESTING OPTIONS

Nova Scotia health is introducting several new walk-in testing centres and mobile units across the province. 

Testing is open to anyone and can be convenient for out-of-province visitors arriving in Nova Scotia, public health said in a release.

A list of locations offering walk-in PCR COVID-19 testing in addition to testing by appointment can be found on the health authority's website. Rapid tests will not be offered at these locations.

Testing is available for all ages, for those who have symptoms, no symptoms (asymptomatic), have travelled or been to a potential exposure site and have been a close contact with a positive COVID case.

Public health is strongly encouraging Nova Scotians to seek asymptomatic COVID-19 testing, particularly if they have had several social interactions, even with their own social circle.

COVID-19 tests can be booked through the province's online self-assessment COVID-19 tool, or by calling 811.

People can also visit one of Nova Scotia’s rapid pop-up testing sites that continue to operate throughout the province.

Saturday, July 3:

• East Preston Recreation Centre (24 Brooks Dr, East Preston) from noon to 7 p.m.
• Richard Murray Design Building (5257 Morris St., Halifax) from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Halifax Convention Centre (1650 Argyle St, Halifax) from noon to 7 p.m.
• Bedford-Hammonds Plains Community Centre (202 Innovation Dr., Bedford) from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• St. Theresa's Parish Hall (285 St. Peter's Road, Sydney) from 2 to 7 p.m.

COVID ALERT APP

Canada’s COVID-19 Alert app is available in Nova Scotia.

The app, which can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or Google Play, notifies users if they may have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

LIST OF SYMPTOMS

Anyone who experiences a fever or new or worsening cough, or two or more of the following new or worsening symptoms, is encouraged to take an online test or call 811 to determine if they need to be tested for COVID-19:

• Sore throat
• Headache
• Shortness of breath
• Runny nose/nasal congestion