ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Peter Jackson
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On the eve of a weekend where many Newfoundland and Labrador residents will make decisions who to “Double Bubble” with, the province’s chief medical officer of health warned everyone not to take the new privileges too far.
That especially applies to those who still work with the public who may want to share their household with an older person or someone with health conditions.
“Please choose your bubble wisely to avoid putting a vulnerable person in another household at risk,” Dr. Janice Fitzgerald said at Friday’s video briefing.
As part of a five-stage relaxation of COVID-19 health measures released Thursday, two households are now permitted to merge exclusively with each other.
Fitzgerald, along with Premier Dwight Ball and Health Minister Dr. John Haggie, said the idea is not to encourage large family gatherings or campfires at the cabin.
Ball said to make sure the decision is mutual, and suggested many people might opt not to double up at all.
“Do what makes you feel safe,” he said.
And speaking of cabins, Fitzgerald emphasized that non-essential travel in the province is still discouraged.
She said people travelling to summer homes should realize that social distancing is just as crucial, and that health facilities in many places are less equipped to handle the situation should an outbreak occur.
“I hope that people will behave responsibly and try to make the best decision,” she said.
Haggie also stressed the need for common sense.
“At the end of the day, it’s not possible for my department or Dr. Fitzgerald to regulate or arbitrate every possible scenario,” he said.
“This is no time for yard sales and things like that. We have not got anywhere near that kind of normalcy yet.”
Business openings
Asked about the lack of certainty over which businesses will qualify to open as the province moves from one alert level to the next, Ball and Fitzgerald said a government team is working with retailers and others to establish the risk in each case.
“It’s impossible for us to know every business that’s out there and what their risk levels are,” Fitzgerald said.
When Level 4 comes into effect on May 11, the businesses that will be newly exempt are garden shops and landscaping services, professional law and financial services, and pet daycares. Dog groomers must remain closed, although veterinarians can provide this service, usually for a higher fee.
Small, organized gatherings such as weddings and funerals will be allowed with a maximum of 10 people, but visitations and wakes are still not permitted.
Fitzgerald also explained why campgrounds in the province will remain closed for now. She said they have communal and recreational areas that encourage socializing, including children playing together.
Domestic violence
In light of recent reports of a spike in domestic violence, the premier said services for those in peril are still being offered.
“Violence of any kind has no place in our society and it will not be tolerated,” he said.
“When you are ready, and it is safe for you to reach out, there are organizations waiting to help you.”
He said physical distancing and hygiene precautions are in place, so victims of abuse are not forced to stay in a situation that is unsafe.
“If you’re experiencing violence in your home, please reach out. All the essential services are still in place, and in many cases they have been enhanced to help you at this difficult time.”
A list of services can be found on the website gov.nl.ca/covid-19.
In other developments Friday:
• Phone services for the hearing impaired are now in place for those needing to call about COVID-19 information and advice. Text service: 709-216-8188. Video relay: 1-888-834-1252. These numbers are for the hearing impaired only.
• Haggie paid tribute to Dr. Debbie Reid, who died this week after a long illness. He said she basically founded modern critical care for children in the province. “She was a star. She was a nice lady, an excellent cook and one of the best damn pediatricians you’ll ever find.”
Peter Jackson is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter covering health for The Telegram.
