As expected, cases of COVID 19 continue to increase across the province and country, including Vancouver Island Health Authority. As we move into what is called a Phase 2 Response, testing will focus on health care workers, admitted hospital patients, and long term care facility outbreaks. All travellers returning home from outside the country including the United States, must self isolate for 14 days. Please refer to our Public Health Officer Dr. Henry's recommendations. If you are ill, please self isolate for 14 days. If you do not follow these recommendations you are putting your family, your friends and our community at risk.

Please:

1. Practice social distancing and wash your hands. All gatherings over 50 are now banned.
2. Check on your neighbour. If they are self isolating or elderly and fearful of going out, they may need help with groceries or picking up prescriptions.
3. Remain connected with loved ones by phone or other means.
4. Call Public Health on Salt Spring for information 250-538-4880.
5. Beware of false information. CBC provides updates from our Public Health Officer as well as other reliable sources.
6. Finally, please remember do NOT present to the hospital with minor ailments and stay home if you are ill.

Editorial Note: Read all official, current and ongoing updates on COVID-19 specifically related to Salt Spring Island on the Salt Spring Exchange under our News > 'Special Alert: COVID-19' News section.