CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Although the number of cases of coronavirus (COVID-19 strain) in P.E.I. remained at three on Tuesday, Chief Health Officer Heather Morrison said she expects the numbers to rise.
Morrison repeated the importance of self-isolation for international and inter-provincial travelers and of social distancing for all. She said if Islanders are able to keep up these measures, it will limit the number of cases of the coronavirus locally.
Morrison raised the risk that, if these measures are not followed, the number of severe cases could rise quickly, as has been seen in countries like Italy or Iran.
“That number could be well above what our healthcare system may be able to cope with if we do not try to flatten that curve," Morrison said, referring to preventive measures that could stop the spread of the virus.
"I do expect that, here in P.E.I., we will soon see a rise in cases and an increase in hospitalizations. So that is why it is important to take measures right now."
The Chief Public Health Office has ordered a 14-day self-isolation of all Islanders returning from travel abroad or from another Province. On Monday, the Province announced individuals who do not follow these orders could face fines of $1,000 for a first offence, $2,000 for a second or as much as $10,000 for subsequent offences.
Those who have not travelled are urged to remain at home as much as possible and keep a two metre distance from everyone when outside.
Morrison also reiterated that playgrounds will remain closed due to the difficulty in maintaining social distancing and that community fundraisers should not continue unless they are able to take place online.
"Those who are going to convenience stores should remember to come in, get what they need - one person - and then leave,” Morrison said.
"I know it isn't easy for any of us but working together while we stay apart is the best way we can prepare for the weeks ahead."
Morrison added that extra staff have been added to the 811 phone line, used to report possible symptoms of COVID-19 from people who have returned from travel.
In response to a question about enforcing the fines for self-isolation, Morrison clarified there will be a warning system in place for individuals who are not following the self-isolation guidelines.
"It's a balanced use of authority. The first call is about making sure people understand what they're supposed to do. And then maybe having to have the police involved in a warning," Morrison said.
Morrison added that she has been receiving calls for days, including from employees who are concerned that co-workers have not been following social isolation guidelines.
But she said most have complied with the regulations once authorities explained their importance.
"There's only been one situation that was brought to my attention that there was a little reluctance. But a subsequent firm voice conversation happened and that was resolved," Morrison said.
Twitter.com/stu_neatby
