Merrick Brown (CHAT News File Photo)

By CHAT News Today

Still spreading

City urging residents to stay home on pandemic’s first long weekend

Apr 8, 2020 | 10:46 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The City of Medicine Hat is urging residents to stay at home during the upcoming Easter long weekend to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“The virus is still spreading,” said Merrick Brown, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Medicine Hat. “If people start to gather together this weekend and we loosen our efforts in social distancing, we would undo all of the containment measures we have put in place over these last few weeks. We know it’s difficult, but it is imperative for the safety of all of our residents.”

Public Health Orders from the province remain in effect and include:

• No gatherings of more than 15 people are allowed. This includes gatherings outdoors.
• Mandatory 14-day self-isolation for returning international travellers or close contacts of people with confirmed COVID-19.
• Mandatory 10-day self-isolation for people with symptoms that are not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition: cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat.

The measures are legally enforceable and may be subject to fines, the city reminds residents.

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The complete list of current Public Health Orders as well more COVID-19 information can be viewed on the provincial government’s dedicated page.

To file a complaint, contact Environmental Public Health or the Medicine Hat Police Service on their Mobile App, online at www.mhps.ca, or by phone at the non-emergency line at 403-529-8481.

The Wednesday release from the city also reminds residents to practice physical distancing, and stay two metres (six feet) away from others, stay off public playgrounds and park structures, and maintain good hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap.

“As this first holiday during Canada’s wave of the pandemic nears, we know these days will be especially tough. Touch base with family and friends through virtual visits but please don’t gather together,” adds Brown.