Nova Scotia confirmed two additional deaths related to the coronavirus on Wednesday, bringing the total to 12.
The deaths were at the Northwood long-term care home in Halifax, the province said in a news release Wednesday. There have now been eight deaths at the facility.
“I extend my condolences to the families and loved one of these individuals – you are in the thoughts of all Nova Scotians. My heart goes out to everyone at Northwood at this time,” said Premier Stephen McNeil.
The province has also confirmed 35 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases to 772.
As of Tuesday, there were 10 licensed long-term care homes and unlicensed seniors’ facilities in Nova Scotia with cases of COVID-19, involving 148 residents and 65 staff.
If an individual has two or more of the following symptoms, they’re asked to visit 811.novascotia.ca to determine if they should call 811 for further assessment:
- fever
- new or worsening cough
- sore throat
- runny nose
- headache
To date, Nova Scotia has 22,993 negative test results, 772 positive COVID-19 test results and 12 deaths.
The province said those with confirmed cases range in age from under 10 to over 90. Ten individuals are currently in hospital, three of those in an intensive care unit.
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There are also now 330 individuals have who have recovered and their cases of COVID-19 are considered resolved.
At the daily press briefing, Premier Stephen McNeil announced that the province will be waiving extra dispensing fees for those enrolled in family pharma care or senior pharma care.
“This will help keep extra money in the pockets while protecting the drug supply… to make sure that Nova Scotians get access to the medications they need,” said McNeil.
He also acknowledged that COVID-19 is having an impact on families affected by the mass shooting that occurred in the province over the weekend where at least 22 people died.
“This is a difficult time to mourn together physically… Our hearts are with you,” McNeil said.
Chief public health officer Dr. Robert Strang reminded Nova Scotians to show their love, respect and support in a virtual way.
He said at the briefing that people shouldn’t be gathering outside on the roads, approaching police officers or offering food to the RCMP detachment.
“There are other ways to show our solidarity and caring,” said Strang, who announced that the province now has an online book of condolences for those who lost their lives this past weekend.
Strang also announced that the RCMP will set up a memorial website for Const. Heidi Stevenson, the 23-year member of the force and mother of two who was killed on Sunday.
“We know that in this province people are rallying around the victims,” he said. “I’m sure they feel the love and support.”
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