**** HEALTH/WELLNESS Media Release
Two Cases of COVID-19 with UK Variant Identified
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Two additional cases of the UK variant of COVID-19 have been identified in Nova Scotia. The cases were initially reported last month and their samples sent for variant testing at that time.
The National Microbiology Lab identified the two cases today, Feb. 10. Both were tested in January and reported in the Central Zone. They isolated and recovered. The initial investigation did not determine a source for the infections but it now has been reopened. The two cases and their close contacts will be reinterviewed.
“With this new information we are being cautious. We are asking the people connected to these cases to get retested and NSHA will reissue the potential exposure notice for the two cases,” said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s chief medical officer of health. “Our strategy of testing, identifying cases and moving quickly when needed is working to keep our active cases low.”
This brings the total number of cases in Nova Scotia involving the UK variant, to three. The lab also previously confirmed a case of the South African variant, tested in December.
Nova Scotia has nine active cases of COVID-19.
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**** NSHA Media Release
*UPDATE* Re-testing required for potential exposure to COVID-19 at two locations in Central Zone
Today the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness announced two additional cases of the U.K. variant of COVID-19. As part of our investigation, Nova Scotia Health Public Health is asking anyone who was present at two previously announced potential exposure locations in Central Zone to self-isolate and get tested immediately, even if they have already been tested.
Anyone who worked at or visited the following locations on the specified dates and times should self-isolate immediately and visit covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/ to book a COVID-19 test, regardless of whether or not they have COVID-19 symptoms and even if they have already gotten tested. You can also call 811 if you don’t have online access or if you have other symptoms that concern you.
Regardless of whether or not you have COVID-19 symptoms, those present at the following locations on the named dates and times are required to self-isolate while waiting for their test result.
- Atlantic Photo Supply Halifax (6111 Pepperell St, Halifax) on Jan. 20 between 12 noon and 1:30 p.m.
- HomeSense Bayers Lake (9 Washmill Lake Ct, Halifax) on Jan. 22 between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Please remember:
Do not go directly to a COVID-19 assessment centre without being directed to do so. Please book an appointment online and do not go to a pop-up rapid testing location.
Currently, anyone who traveled outside Nova Scotia or PEI is expected to self-isolate alone for 14 days after arriving. If a person returning from non-essential travel outside Nova Scotia or PEI is unable to isolate alone, then everyone in the home where they are self-isolating will have to self-isolate as well.
When Nova Scotia Health Public Health makes a public notification it is not in any way a reflection on the behaviour or activities of those named in the notification.
All Nova Scotians are advised to continue monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms and are urged to follow Public Health guidelines on how to access care. Up to date information about COVID-19 is available at
novascotia.ca/coronavirus
