Strang says low case numbers needed for several weeks before significant changes to restrictions

Nova Scotia's top doctor says they can't move to quickly away from current measures as we expect to find out what restrictions could impact holiday celebrations this week.

Last month, the province implemented a number of restrictions in the Halifax area, including lowering gathering limits and closing bars and restaurants to in-person dining for two weeks due to a rise in COVID-19 cases.

That was later extended to Dec. 16 and though numbers have declined since then, Dr. Robert Strang said they have to be very careful about lifting restrictions.

“I know that people are anxious and ready to get back to something a little more normal, but moving too quickly away from these restrictions can do the opposite,” said Strang.

“It can put us right back to where we were a month ago and prolong the need for extensive restrictions around COVID.”

Strang said they need to see the low, single-digit case numbers for several weeks and beyond before making any big changes.

He added the next few weeks require the same resolve residents showed in the weeks prior in order to keep COVID-19 out of communities and keep people safe.