Lower North Shore Passengers Now Being Contacted for Testing on Oct 26, 27, & 28 Flights

Dr. Richard Fachehoun, of the Department of Public Health at the CISSS de la Côte-Nord

LOCAL NEWS - NOVEMBER 3, 2020 - Lower North Shore Passengers from flights on Oct 26, 27 & 28 to be contacted and tested

The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS) de la Côte-Nord held a press briefing for the North Shore territory this afternoon. Dr. Richard Fachehoun, of the Department of Public Health at the CISSS de la Côte-Nord shared new information regarding an airline employee who tested positive for COVID-19 on the Lower North Shore. The employee was present on flights between Québec and several municipalities of the Lower North Shore on October 26th, 27th and 28th. This person is currently self-isolating in their home, outside the region.
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In light of new information received during the epidemiological investigation, the CISSS also stated in a press release this afternoon that all passengers who were on the flights concerned will be contacted and tested this week. The passengers in question can call 1-877-644-4545 to make an appointment for a screening test. As COVID-19 is spread mainly through close unprotected contact with a case over a sustained period of time, the CISSS de la Cote Nord states that the risk for these passengers remains low.

The CISSS de la Côte-Nord continues to meet with the chiefs of the indigenous communities and elected officials of the Lower North Shore to keep them informed of this situation, which is very closely monitored by public health authorities.

In order to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, it is important to follow these measures at all times:

 Wash your hands frequently, for 20 seconds, using soap and warm water, or use an
alcohol-based solution;
 Wear a mask or face covering in public places;
 Stay two metres away from other people;
 A person who has symptoms consistent with COVID-19 can call 1 877 644-4545 for an evaluation
of their condition, and an appointment for a screening test.

It was also stated by Dr. Richard Fachehoun, of the Department of Public Health, that although the situation on the North Shore territory remains stable, we may expect to live with the virus for the next several months.

Abbygail Wellman
CFBS Journalist