City of Saint John, N.B., closes pedways to promote physical distancing during COVID-19 pandemic

Saint John, N.B., has closed a series of pedways in the city’s downtown core as it attempts to promote physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The closures go into effect immediately, and the pedways will remain closed until further notice.

READ MORE: Maritime universities establish emergency funds for students during coronavirus crisis

The City of Saint John says the pedway closures include:

• The Saint John City Market to Brunswick Square
• Chipman Hill to Brunswick Square and City Hall
• The Skywalk connecting the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, City Hall and Market Square
• The pedway connecting the Canada Games Aquatic Centre and the Mercantile Building
• The pedway connection the Mercantile Building to TD Station

Any businesses that remain open in Market and Brunswick squares are accessible from exterior entrances only, the province said in a press release.

1:57 Production of non-medical masks ramping up in New Brunswick

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

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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.