NSHA issues public advisory of two potential COVID-19 exposures

The Nova Scotia Health Authority has issued a public advisory of two potential COVID-19 exposures last month.

A press release from the NSHA says that the potential exposures occurred on March 15 at Eagles Funeral Home in Westville, N.S., and the Alma Fire Hall.

“This notification is being made out of an abundance of caution as Public Health now starts contact tracing 48 hours before symptom onset. These events fell within that 48-hour period,” the NSHA said in a press release.

READ MORE: Nova Scotia extends coronavirus state of emergency until April 19

The organization says that anyone who may have been exposed at the funeral home or fire hall are “just past” the 14-day period where they should self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

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However, they are asking anyone who was at that location and have since developed any symptoms to call 811.

3:51 Coronavirus outbreak: 26 new cases identified in Nova Scotia, bringing total across province to 173

This will help the NSHA identify any connected cases and will aid in their efforts to contain the pandemic.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing

Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.