Outdoor get-togethers not OK, says chief public health officer

P.E.I.'s chief public health officer Dr. Heather Morrison says with theCOVID-19 pandemic, Islanders should not be gathering to socialize, even if they are the recommended two metres apart.

At a daily briefingMonday, Morrison announced seven new cases of COVID-19 on P.E.I., all related to international travel, and stressed the best way for everyone to stay safe right nowis to stay apart.

"As we continue to see our numbers in Prince Edward Island grow, I will continue to stress the importance of social distancing, physical distancing, as well as social isolation," said Morrison.

Morrison said that people should only be leaving their homes if they absolutely have to.

"If you do need to leave the house you should practise physical distancing," she said.

This weekend, Morrison said people on the Island weren't practising physical distancing by keeping two metres or more betweenthem.

"Physical distancing is not meeting up in groups outside. Physical distancing is not grocery shopping in groups. Physical distancing is not having play dates with other children," she said.

Morrison said she understands that people may miss social interaction with their loved ones.

"I too would love to do many of these things, but now is not the time."

She said it's important to limitinteractions like stopping for a chat with a friendand not organize gatherings with your friends and family, even outdoors. Instead, say a quick hello and carry on.

"I think it's hard for people to stay physically distant from each other for long periods of time if you're out on the street."

Morrison acknowledgedit might be tough right now, but said it's importantIslanders take every step they can to preventthe spread of COVID-19.

"We keep saying this is not going to be forever, but it will be a lot longer for all of us if we don't do everything we can now."

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 aself-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.

• Practisephysical distancing.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on thefederal government's website.

More COVID-19 stories from CBC P.E.I.