Five new cases of COVID-19 are being reported in Nova Scotia today, March 24.

The cases are in Central Zone. Three of the cases are close contacts of previously reported cases. The other two cases are related to travel outside Atlantic Canada. The people are self-isolating, as required.

“We must stay the course and continue to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the province,” said Premier Iain Rankin. “By following the public health protocols, we are protecting each other and slowing the spread of the virus.”

As of today, Nova Scotia has 24 active cases of COVID-19.

Nova Scotia Health Authority’s labs completed 1,989 Nova Scotia tests on March 23.

As of March 23, 71,733 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered. Of those, 21,648 Nova Scotians have received their second dose.

Since Oct. 1, Nova Scotia has completed 284,114 tests. There have been 607 positive COVID-19 cases and one death. No one is in hospital. Cases range in age from under 10 to over 80. There are 582 resolved cases. Cumulative cases may change as data is updated in Panorama.

“Nova Scotians continue to work hard to keep the virus contained,” said Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s chief medical officer of health. “Please continue to wear a mask, limit social contacts, practise social distancing, adhere to the gathering limit, stay home if you feel unwell and wash your hands.”

Nova Scotians are strongly encouraged to seek asymptomatic COVID-19 testing, particularly if they have a large number of close contacts due to their work or social activities. Appointments can be booked at https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/ , by choosing the asymptomatic option. Rapid testing pop-up sites continue to be set up around the province as well. More information on testing can be found at https://www.nshealth.ca/coronavirustesting .

Source: Release #notw