Prince Edward Island reported one new case of COVID-19 on Tuesday, a woman in her 20s who is a rotational worker. She traveled from Edmonton to Charlottetown on Air Canada, through Toronto on Oct. 13, on flights 162 and 7460.
When she was first tested, between day zero to two of arrival, she tested negative for COVID-19 but when tested a second time, between day four and seven, she was positive.
Dr. Heather Morrison, the chief public health officer of P.E.I., said at a press conference Tuesday that this incident demonstrates that “a negative test reflects a single point in time only.”
“Testing does not replace self-isolation,” Dr. Morrison said. “The testing and isolation requirement for workers…are in place and should be followed.”
The province’s chief public health officer also spoke about differentiating between influenza and COVID-19. Dr. Morrison indicated symptoms like fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, sore throat, muscle ache and headaches are common between both.
COVID-19 can lead to loss of taste or smell, which is specific to this particular virus.
Dr. Morrison said both viruses are spread when coming into close contact with an infected person, transmitted through droplets when they talk, sneeze or cough. She added that COVID-19 is more contagious than influenza and has led to more super spreader events.
