Coronavirus (COVID-19): symptoms, testing and self-isolating

Symptoms and testing

Visit Nova Scotia Health Authority for information about COVID-19 symptoms, COVID-19 testing and if you have tested positive for COVID-19.

How to get tested

Nova Scotia Health Authority provides testing throughout the province – check COVID-19 testing requirements for when you need to get tested for COVID-19 and how to get tested.

How to self-isolate

Most people don’t need to self-isolate. However, self-isolating means staying at home and avoiding contact with other people to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Public Health recommends that you self-isolate if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19.

Self-isolating guidelines

To self-isolate, you should:

• stay home – don't go to work, school or other public places (you can use your deck, balcony or yard, but you need to avoid contact with other people)
• avoid contact with people you live with
• use a separate bedroom and bathroom, if you can
• if you need to share a space (like a bedroom or bathroom), disinfect surfaces that were touched
• avoid elevators or stairwells if you live in an apartment building, condo or hotel (stay inside your unit if you can)
• wear a mask in common areas if you’re self-isolating in an apartment building, condo or hotel and need to leave the property for outdoor exercise, necessary healthcare or getting tested for COVID-19
• avoid leaving your property, apartment building, condo or hotel except for outdoor exercise within walking or running distance of where you’re self-isolating – you shold keep a physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others (or wear a mask)
• take and record your temperature daily
• have groceries and other supplies delivered
• avoid anyone with chronic conditions or a compromised immune system and older adults
• avoid having visitors to your home or where you’re self-isolating
• avoid taking public transportation
• book a COVID-19 test if you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms; you can call 1-833-797-7772 if you’re unable to book a test online
• follow hand washing guidelines, cough and sneeze guidelines and cleaning and disinfecting guidelines

Federal support for self-isolating

The Government of Canada also has additional resources about how to self-isolate and how to care for someone with COVID-19.