**** HEALTH/WELLNESS Media Release
COVID-19 Affected Areas Expanded
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More cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are expected in Canada as the areas affected by the virus continues to expand outside of China.
“While the risk to Nova Scotians is still low, we continue to work with our public health colleagues across Canada and our partners here in Nova Scotia to prepare for the possibility of seeing cases in this province,” said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s chief medical officer of health. “Good hygiene remains the best way to protect yourself and others.”
Anyone who has travelled from an affected area should closely monitor their health for 14 days after their arrival in Canada. If you have travelled to an affected area and develop a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call 811 for an assessment.
To date, there have been no cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotians can find accurate, up-to-date information at http://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/ .
Quick Facts:
— in December 2019, cases of pneumonia were reported in Wuhan, China, caused by a new virus that had not been seen in humans. The illness was caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and is called COVID-19
— Nova Scotia launched a website dedicated to the latest information about the coronavirus in January
— the Government of Canada has set up a novel coronavirus information line at 1-833-784-4397
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The following is a statement issued by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission
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Nova Scotians are asked to be vigilant against discrimination based on ethnic or national origin as global health concerns heighten.
Reports of discrimination against members of the Chinese community and other communities impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are appearing in the news. Because of this, Nova Scotians are being reminded that it is illegal to discriminate against anyone based on their ethnic or national origin, race and/or colour.
Additionally, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act protects against discrimination based on an irrational fear of contracting an illness or disease.
The commission encourages people to take precautions based on the most current advice from public health officials. Reactions based on stereotypes must not replace responsible actions based on evidence.
Any member of the public that feels they have been discriminated against is encouraged to contact the Human Rights Commission.
To learn more about the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission visit http://humanrights.novascotia.ca .
Additional Resources:
The Public Health Agency of Canada maintains a list of affected areas: http://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/covid-19-affected-areas-list.html
Government of Canada: http://canada.ca/coronavirus
Nova Scotia Public Health offices: http://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-offices
