COVID-19 on P.E.I.: What's happening Saturday, April 18

The number of COVID-19 cases on P.E.I. remains at 26, as 43 more test results returned negative Saturday, according to a release from the province.

For the second weekend in a row, care packages containing potatoes and dairy products will be given out free at drive-thru locationsset up by P.E.I. government,Amalgamated Dairies Limited and the P.E.I. Potato Board.

Last weekend, they were set up in Charlottetown and Summerside. Today, until 1 p.m.,they will be held inthree rural locations Westisle Composite High School, Bluefield High School and Rodd Brudenell River Resort.

P.E.I. is in its second day under a state of emergency. It came into effect 8 a.m. Friday and will last untilApril 30at 11:59 p.m., unless it is extended by an order in council. A state of emergency allows for enhanced controls and screening at points of entry to the province.

There is no COVID-19 briefing scheduled for Saturday with Dr. Heather Morrison, the chief public health officer, but that is subject to change.

In an interview with CBC News: Compass host Louise Martin Friday evening, Morrison said it is difficult to tell whether P.E.I. is over the peak, but officials are looking at how measures can be eased while protecting the most vulnerable people.

P.E.I. has26 confirmed cases of COVID-19and only one in the last nine days.

The province has had no hospitalizations due to the virus and lists 23 cases as recovered. More than 2,100 people have been tested.

Northumberland Ferries has delayed the start of its season until at least June 1.

The Prince Edward Island Fishermen's Association is taking a vote among its members on whether to delay the opening of lobster season to either May 6 or May 13.

P.E.I. Premier Dennis King sayslobster fishermen are being asked to make an impossible choice and Ottawa needs to step up and support them.

Recent stories

• Official Opposition is calling for government "oversight, transparency and accountability" during the pandemic
• P.E.I. lawn-care companies expect 'huge hit' after being deemed non-essential by public health.
• A P.E.I. group is rampingup online support for new parents during COVID-19 pandemic.
• Premier Dennis King talks to Compass host Louise Martin about what easing restrictions might look like.
• P.E.I. program for recovering addicts finds new home in junior high cafeteria.

Further resources

• Here isinformation for livingwith the COVID-19 pandemic on P.E.I. including information on government relief programs, physical distancing measures, andessential health services.
• Here arecharts tracking COVID-19 numbers and a timeline of COVID-19-related events on P.E.I.
• A full list ofCOVID-19 cancellationscan be viewed here. You can report closures on our cancellation hotline at 1-877-236-9350.

COVID-19: What you need to know

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.

But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.

Health Canada has built aself-assessment tool.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Isolate yourself and call 811. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested. A health professional at 811 will give you advice and instructions.

How can I protect myself?

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean regularly touched surfaces regularly.
• Practisephysical distancing.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on thefederal government's website.

More COVID-19 stories from CBC P.E.I.