COVID-19 on P.E.I.: What's happening Sunday, May 17
Two things are making life easier for Islanders this weekend — pets and lobster
It's the first weekend of the spring lobster season and, as a quick scroll through social media would suggest, the first big feed of the season for many Islanders.
The spring season was delayed by two weeks due to COVID-19.
P.E.I. National Park will remain closed to visitors throughout the Victoria Day weekend.
Many businesses and services are preparing to reopen on May 22, including the Brackley Drive-In.
Pride P.E.I. is asking Islanders to display a rainbow today in recognition of International Day against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia.
Owners are sharing stories about how their pets are providing comfort and normalcy though COVID-19.
UPEI will adopt a "blended framework" for the fall semester that includes online instruction for some programs and in-person, on-campus instruction for others.
The newcomers association on P.E.I. is rolling out a social media campaign next week to combat some racist comments that have been circulating since the pandemic began.
P.E.I. has had no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the past 17 days. All 27 previous cases have recovered.
Also in the news
- P.E.I.'s oldest businesses have been through tough times before, including wars and economic downturns — but they say it's nothing like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- With tourism entirely shut down, and no clear idea when it will open, some short-term rental operators are offering up their units for long-term rentals.
- Up 3,300 licensed child-care spaces are expected to open starting May 22
- The province is planning for what Phase 3 could look at for seasonal residents and cottagers on P.E.I.
- P.E.I. Cannabis stores will reopen next week, and liquor stores that are still closed will follow a few days later.
- P.E.I.'s plan to launch Phase 3 of its ease-back plan will be expedited to an expected start of June 1 from June 12. Phase 3 will include the reopening of things like esthetic services, indoor and outdoor dining and campgrounds.
Further resources
- Here is information for living with the COVID-19 pandemic on P.E.I. — including information on government relief programs, physical distancing measures, and essential health services.
- Here are charts tracking COVID-19 numbers and a timeline of COVID-19-related events on P.E.I.
COVID-19: What you need to know
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Common symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Cough.
- Tiredness.
But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.
Health Canada has built a self-assessment tool.
What should I do if I feel sick?
Isolate yourself and call 811. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested. A health professional at 811 will give you advice and instructions.
How can I protect myself?
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean regularly touched surfaces regularly.
- Practise physical distancing.
More detailed information on the outbreak is available on the federal government's website.