Discover Halifax is closely monitoring the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and continues to update this page regularly.
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.
» Find up-to-date COVID-19 testing data for Nova Scotia here.
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 other destinations, including other provinces in Canada, must self-isolate for a period of 14 days.
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.
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 may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. The list of possible symptoms now include:
• fever (chills, sweats)
• cough or worsening of a previous cough
• sore throat
• headache
• shortness of breath
• muscle aches
• sneezing
• nasal congestion or runny nose
• hoarse voice
• diarrhea
• unusual fatigue
• loss of sense of smell or taste
• red, purple or blueish lesions on the feet, toes or fingers without clear cause
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.
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:
• Avoid close contact with people with chronic conditions, compromised immune systems and older adults.
• Avoid entertaining guests in your home.
• Avoid situations like social gatherings, work, school, daycare.
• Do not visit other people who are in a healthcare facility or long-term care residence.
• Limit taking public transit, taxis and ride sharing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water frequently for at least 20 seconds; use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with your arm or a tissue when coughing or sneezing; throw the tissue away.
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.
Effective July 3, 2020, the Province of Nova Scotia increased gathering limits. Please refer to the provincial guidelines.