Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health says the COVID-19 outbreak in a defined Northern Zone community is winding down.
However, Dr. Strang says a new cluster of cases has been identified in Antigonish.
“Unfortunately a cluster of cases associated with St. Francis Xavier University was reported last night and we expect additional cases in the coming days,” says Strang. “Public health is working closely with the university to understand and manage this evolving situation.
Today is the first day of the investigation into the cluster.
There won’t be any special COVID-19 restrictions this holiday season, but Dr. Strang says the province will push to make rapid tests more available this month.
Indoor gatherings are capped at 25 people.
Premier Tim Houston also announced public school students will be given two extra days for holiday break.
Students will now return to class on January 6th.
Dr. Strang gave an update on COVID-19 vaccine booster doses.
“Once plans are complete, we’ll announce the specific dates that the booster doses can be booked for Nova Scotians between ages 50 through 69,” says Strang. “And for those under 50 we will revisit boosters in the new year.”
Those 70 and over are currently eligible for their booster.
Nova Scotia reported 22 new cases today and 31 recoveries, bringing the active case number to 200. There are 11 people currently in hospital, with four in the ICU.
Of the new cases, 18 are in the Central Zone and four are in the Northern Zone.
Four schools in the province have reported possible exposure to COVID-19.
