2021-11-24

Kim Masland tests positive for COVID-19

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Kim Masland, Queens MLA and Nova Scotia Minister of Public Works, has contracted COVID-19.

Masland made the announcement in a news release issued today, saying she had received the news this morning.

"At this time, I do not know how I contracted it. I will provide all of the information I can to public health and work with them to trace all of my contacts," Masland said in the release.

She noted she's fully vaccinated and gets tested regularly. A test Nov. 11 yielded a negative test.

Masland explained she felt unwell on Nov. 14 and took a test the following day.

"This shows how contagious the virus is and how important it is to be vaccinated and follow public health measures," she said. "I am not feeling well, but thankfully my symptoms are mild and I know that the vaccine is preventing me from becoming seriously ill."

She said she will continue to work with public health and requested privacy as she recovers.

Masland, who is also the Government House Leader, was elected as the MLA for Queens-Shelburne in 2017 under the Progressive Conservatives. She was re-elected in 2021.

In the news release, Masland indicated she's worried about her friends, loved ones and constituents with whom she may have come in contact. She also stated that this is a reminder that COVID-19 is still around and that it is critical to continue to follow public health protocols.

"Get vaccinated. Stay home if you're unwell and get tested," said Masland.

In a COVID-19 update Nov. 17, the province reported 20 new cases of COVID-19 including six cases in the Western Zone, eight in the Central Zone and six in the Northern Zone.

As of Nov. 17 Nova Scotia has 236 active cases of COVID-19. Of those, 17 people are in hospital.

The province also reported that as of Nov. 16, 1,613,097 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered. Of those, 783,666 Nova Scotians have received their second dose, and 8,866 eligible Nova Scotians have had a third dose.