CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — A return to the classroom will be at least six weeks away for P.E.I. students.
Chief public health officer Dr. Heather Morrison has recommended schools remain closed until May 11 with a re-evaluation closer to the date.
Premier Dennis King said Education Minister Brad Trivers will provide details Monday on how education will proceed in the coming weeks.
“I believe it will include a lot of online learning and home-based learning…it won’t be perfect but trying to make the best out of a difficult situation to ensure that there is as much learning as possible during this time of uncertainty,’’ said King.
Morrison is also recommending non-essential government services and non-essential businesses remain closed indefinitely.
She voiced concern for “too many’’ people leaving and arriving on P.E.I. for personal reasons.
She said all unnecessary travel into the province is prohibited.
Morrison said cottagers and visitors coming to P.E.I. need to ensure they have the support upon their arrival to spend the mandatory 14 days in self-isolation. If not, she added, they must stay home until they have such supports in place.
“This is not over,’’ she said.
“Self-isolation and social and physical distancing is what we need to continue to do. It will help us. It will help our families and our province.’’
Morrison said a National Emergency Strategic Stockpile (NESS) clinic will be available as of Saturday in Charlottetown. It will have both a drive-through testing clinic and a cough and fever clinic, seven days a week. Appointment is required for both.
King said the province is doing its best to provide daycare and other assistance to allow every available health care worker to do their job.
“It’s a delicate dance, to say the least,’’ he said.
Morrison continues to stress the importance of self-isolation for 14 days following interprovincial or international travel, and to practice social distancing for those who have not traveled, in an effort to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.
Islanders experiencing symptoms (cough, fever, or shortness of breath) within 14 days of travel should call 811 to be screened and, if necessary, directed for testing. Those requiring immediate medical attention should call 911.
For answers to general questions about COVID-19 call 1-833-533-9333 or visit the government webpage at www.princeedwardisland.ca/covid19.
