Long-term care homes are getting ready to accept more visitors.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Strang announced, starting Wednesday, outdoor visits can include up to five people, and three people can be designated inside visitors, but only one may visit at a time.
Dr. Strang says they’ll allow limited physical contact.
“People can go in and give a brief hug, a hand on the shoulder,” he says. “We understand the importance of that direct physical contact.”
Dr. Strang says visits will be by appointment and you shouldn’t go if you’re feeling unwell.
He also says masks are required.
“It’s very important if you’re going to get in closer than the six feet,” he says. “At all times people will need a mask, but it’s critical any close contact is done wearing a mask.”
As well, he says residents and staff, but not visitors, can gather in groups of 10 or less for dining, recreation, or socializing without physical distancing.
Sightseeing bus trips for 10 person groups are okay, but residents will not be allowed off the bus, and licensed hair salons inside long-term care homes can reopen to serve residents only.
Dr. Strang announced masks will be required on public transportation, including school buses, private taxis and shuttles, community transit vehicles and municipal ferries, starting next Friday.
The Nova Scotia Health authority says they’ll be introducing a mask policy as well, masks will be required in all hospitals and healthcare facilities starting Tuesday.
No new cases were announced Friday, we have two active infections.
