There are 17 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total cases to 90 in Nova Scotia.
Most of the new cases are travel related or connected to earlier cases.
It is too early to say if there is community spread.
None of new cases are related to the St. Patrick’s Day event in Lake Echo.
Two infected persons are in hospital, three have recovered.
As testing is expanded into the community, Nova Scotia will likely see more cases. This is seen as a positive thing that will help stop the spread.
Persons who are screened through 811 will be tested regardless of whether or not they have traveled.
There may have been exposure to the virus in New Glasgow and Antigonish earlier in March. Anyone who was at Highland Eye Care in New Glasgow on March 11 or at the Charles V. Keating Millennium Centre in Antigonish on March 12 should self monitor for symptoms.
COVID-19 testing has been expanded to health-care workers and people who work in continuing care at the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre. This will not only protect workers, but also help identify pockets of transmission.
The Nova Scotia Health Authority set up a 1-800 number so health care workers in those organizations who have respiratory symptoms can call and set up a COVID-19 test.
The province has bought 800 iPads to be given to seniors in long-term care homes so they can keep in touch with family. The tablets will begin to arrive at facilities in April.
On top of the $1 million that will be provided to support Feed Nova Scotia, the province will provide additional funding to 12 community food banks.
The government announced a rent deferral program for small businesses who have been forced to close because of the pandemic. Landlords will be asked to sign a rent-deferral agreement and government will guarantee up to $5,000 a month if that business goes under.
Government will partner with Telus to purchase phones and provide data minutes for vulnerable people.
$200,000 will go to support transition homes and shelters that support women and children, to meet cleaning protocols and supply extra space needed for physical distancing.
People are reminded to only call 911 to report emergencies. Do not call 911 to report on people.
