Discover Halifax is closely monitoring the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). We are committed to offering our visitors, members and community up-to-date information on the novel coronavirus to assist in your business and travel plans.

Our main goal is to share information that can help keep you healthy and informed. 

Status of cases

» Find up-to-date COVID-19 testing data for Nova Scotia here.

Travelling to Nova Scotia

The four Atlantic Canadian provinces have reached an agreement to form a travel bubble between Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. Residents from those provinces can enter Nova Scotia for any purpose without having to self-isolate.

Anyone entering Nova Scotia from outside the Atlantic bubble, including other provinces in Canada, must self-isolate for a period of 14 days. You can find more information on the rules and complete the province’s travel declaration form on the Province’s website.

Travellers who are aged 65 and older, have a compromised immune system, and/or underlying medical conditions are at higher risk to COVID-19, regardless of the destination. 

Travel outside of Nova Scotia

Canadians who choose to travel, should check the latest health notices to understand the risk associated with your destination.

» Check the Pandemic COVID-19 travel health notice.
» Check Travel Advice and Advisories for more information.

The most up-to-date travel information can be found directly via the following links:

• Halifax International Airport
• Canada Border Services Agency
• Cruise Line International Association
• VIA Rail Canada

Symptoms to watch for

Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. The list of possible symptoms now include: 

• fever (chills, sweats) OR cough (new or worsening)

OR do you have two or more of the following symptoms (new or worsening):
• sore throat
• runny nose
• headache
• shortness of breath

Some people who have COVID-19 have little to no symptoms, or think they have a cold or flu. For people with severe cases, the infection could require hospitalization, or lead to death. 

For more information, check out the Daily Checklist provided by the Province of Nova Scotia.

What to do if you’re feeling unwell

If you develop symptoms, or think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, call 811 for assessment by a nurse. You may be referred to a COVID-19 assessment centre if there is a need for an in-person assessment. Please do not go to a COVID-19 assessment centre without a referral from 811. 

If language is a barrier, please consult with your tour operator or accommodation providers, as they may be able to contact a health-care professional on your behalf. 

If you are feeling unwell, the most important thing to do is self-isolate from the public for a period of 14 days.

Reopening with preventative measures

Local businesses and event venues are taking preventative measures and enhancing health protocols to protect our community and visitors.  If there is a local establishment you plan to visit, please call ahead. Follow health protocols such as wearing a mask, physical distancing, and washing your hands frequently.

Many businesses have reopened following provincial health guidelines, including some restaurants and bars. Please visit the province’s website for a complete list of what’s open and current restrictions in Nova Scotia.

Event gathering limits

Effective July 3, 2020, the Province of Nova Scotia increased gathering limits. Please refer to the provincial guidelines.

• Businesses and organizations planning outdoor events can include 250 people with physical distancing. Indoor events are limited to 50 per cent capacity to a maximum of 200 people, with physical distancing.
• Gatherings not organized by a recognized business or organization, such as a family event are subject to 50 people maximum with physical distancing.