1. Coronavirus (COVID-19)
  2. Symptoms, testing and self-isolating

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

Symptoms, who can be tested and how to self-isolate.

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.