Tweet

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald

13 Feb, 9 tweets, 2 min read

THREAD 🧵 We have received confirmation that the outbreak in the metro area is indeed due to a COVID-19 variant of concern, specifically the B.1.1.7 variant which was first recognized in the UK. This variant is more infectious than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2.

We have seen how rapidly it has spread in facilities elsewhere in the country. We know that if not controlled, it becomes the predominant strain within weeks of first appearance. This is concerning and serious. But we have the ability to overcome it.

We know that our greatest ally is speed. We therefore have to take quick and decisive action to reduce the spread of this variant. I am announcing that, effective immediately, I am introducing special measures orders across the province that will take us back to Alert Level 5 ⚠️

We will re-evaluate this measure in two weeks.

This is necessary to give public health the time it needs to expand testing and actively find cases. It gives us time to plan our response.

We have to remember, however, that we have the ability to control the spread of this variant. Remember our tried and true public health measures:

👪Keep your contacts as low as possible
📏Keep physical distance
🧼Wash your hands often & well
😷Wear a mask when with anyone outside your household bubble, even briefly
🏡Stay at home if you are unwell, even if your symptoms are mild
🏥Arrange testing if you have symptoms

Anyone experiencing one single symptom of COVID-19 should complete the online self-assessment and referral tool (covidassessment.nlchi.nl.ca) or call 811 to arrange testing.

More information on my special measures and updated information on Alert Level 5 ⚠️ that I announced tonight will be available in the coming hours at gov.nl.ca/covid-19. Please be patient with us as our team is working as fast as possible with this new information.

Hold fast Newfoundland and Labrador. ♥️

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More from @CMOH_NL

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald

@CMOH_NL

13 Feb

❗️ Remember, we all possess the tools and the ability to protect against this virus and stop the outbreak. The same public health measures we have been practicing throughout the year will protect us now:

😷 Your non-medical mask is a critical layer of protection for yourself and others.

Wear it whenever you are interacting with people outside your household bubble, not just indoor public spaces.

Your mask should be at least 2⃣ layers, 3⃣ is better.
👉Make sure it fully covers your nose and chin. Do not wear a face shield in place of a mask.

Read 14 tweets

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald

@CMOH_NL

10 Feb

⚠️ We are increasing restrictions in the St. John's/metro area, effective midnight tonight:

➡️ Formal gatherings such as funerals, burials, weddings, and religious and cultural ceremonies are limited to 10 people, as long as physical distancing can be maintained.

Wakes and visitations are prohibited.

➡️ Private health care clinics can remain open in accordance with provincial guidelines.

Read 10 tweets

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald

@CMOH_NL

8 May 20

THREAD 🧵

1⃣ On Monday, assuming all goes well this weekend, I will be moving our #COVID19 Alert Level down to 4. Please visit gov.nl.ca/covid-19/alert… to learn more about what that means for you.

2⃣ Gatherings of 10 ppl is acceptable in Alert Level 4, but should only occur when #PhysicalDistancing is possible. The intention is to allow for small funerals, burials, weddings. This isn't a green light to host parties -- you should remain in your bubble or your #DoubleBubble.

3⃣ If you're well & not required to self-isolate, you can participate in some recreational activities. Outdoor activities, like walking, hiking, or bike riding, are encouraged as long as physical distancing can be maintained and you are not req'd to self-isolate for any reason.

Read 7 tweets

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald

@CMOH_NL

30 Apr 20

THREAD 🧵 Here are some key take-aways from my #COVID19 update today. We are relying on the best available information and we are gradually taking steps to relax some of the guidelines in low-risk environments and begin to live with COVID-19 in our communities. #covid19nfld

2⃣ COVID-19 is here. It is in our communities and unfortunately will be a part of our daily lives until a vaccine is available. We need to live life with the threat of COVID-19 around us.