Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services advises the public that we continue to closely monitor the forest fire near Musgrave Harbour. The Provincial Government has activated the provincial emergency operations centre. We are working closely with provincial agencies, the municipality, and other partners to ensure the health, safety and well-being of people in the area.

Due to the evacuation order in effect, the Musgrave Harbour Community Health Centre remains closed. NL Health Services is contacting individuals with scheduled appointments, as well as other clients in their care, to ensure continuity of care for those affected. If you have not been contacted by NL Health Services and have concerns, please reach out to your individual case manager. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately. For non-emergency medical support for those impacted, please call the 811 HealthLine.

At this time, services offered at other health care facilities in the Central region are not impacted. Patients/clients should proceed as normal to nearby health-care facilities for care, as determined necessary. The Provincial Government has established a reception centre in Gander at the Steele Community Centre, 155 Airport Boulevard, and NL Health Services is providing assistance to those in need.

NL Health Services is committed to continuing to provide safe and quality care for people in the area. NL Health Services recognizes that this may be a difficult time for people and encourages them to avail of mental health resources, if necessary. For a full listing of available resources, please visit: https://nl.bridgethegapp.ca/adult/mental-health-services-during-natural-disasters-and-emergencies/.

Wildfire smoke presents serious health risks for those exposed, including high-risk populations such as seniors, pregnant people and children. To learn more about wildfire smoke and how to protect your health, please visit: https://rebrand.ly/wildfire-smoke-your-health. For air quality information from Environment Canada, visit the Air Quality Health Index.

NL Health Services remains in close contact with emergency officials and will communicate any changes as the situation evolves.  The latest forest fire information can be on the Provincial Government’s alerts at www.gov.nl.ca/alerts, as well as the NL Active Wildfire Dashboard.

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