Fewer Islanders in hospital with COVID-19 Friday

Two people are in hospital on Prince Edward Island being treated for COVID-19, with one of those in intensive care,according to a written release Friday from P.E.I.Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison.

That's down from Thursday when four Islanders werein hospital due to COVID-19, with one in intensive care.

The number of people in hospital for other reasons whotested positive for COVID-19 is also down from three patients to one.

Morrison also announced 175 new cases of COVID-19 and 116 recoveries for P.E.I.

There are 1,550 active cases of COVID-19 on P.E.I. right now and2,463 cases total.

She reminded Islanders of shorter isolation periods announced Thursday that came into effect Friday morning. The new rules mean fully-vaccinated Islanders who test positive can now isolatefor seven days rather than 10daysfollowingthe onset of symptoms or a positive test if not symptomatic.

She also reminded peoplethat Health P.E.I. is now limiting testing for COVID-19, to preserve the capacity of testing clinics. Only people with COVID-19 symptoms and close contacts of positive cases should go toa clinic for testing, along with people who need confirmation of a positive test at an entry point such as the airport or bridge, or confirmation of a rapid antigen test.