Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) are speaking out against misinformation that’s circulating that claims that federally-designated quarantine facilities for returning travellers are internment camps or even concentration camps.

They’re hotel rooms, people

Federal facilities are usually hotel rooms, the organizations said on Twitter, calling attention to false rumours that are making the rounds online.

“Federally designated quarantine sites, typically hotel rooms, are not internment camps. #Misinformation is circulating that Canada is using concentration camps for #COVID19 quarantine. This is completely false,” the organizations’ joint-account tweeted.

Health Canada and PHAC note that all travellers entering Canada are strongly encouraged to provide a place for their 14 days self-isolation period before their arrival.

The majority of travellers will choose their own home or stay where they are visiting in Canada, they say.

“If this is not possible, travellers should consider alternative arrangements that are within their own financial means such as booking a hotel/motel room or other paid housing alternative, or staying with friends or family,” they wrote.

Last resort…

What if travellers entering Canada do not have access to any of these options?

“If travellers to Canada are confirmed to have no other suitable options available, they may be transferred to a designated #GoC quarantine facility. This measure is used as a last resort,” they wrote.

Health Canada and PHAC reiterate that, from a government perspective, mandatory isolation and quarantine protect Canadians against COVID-19.

“That is our top priority. We all need to do our part. For travellers coming to Canada, that includes quarantining for 14 days,” they added.

Health Canada and PHAC are calling on Canadians to help stop the spread of misinformation about COVID-19 by relaying information from public health authorities, government, trusted media and other trusted authorities.

The tweets were posted on Oct. 21, one day before Alberta, on Oct. 22, announced that it would be introducing a rapid COVID-19 testing pilot program that aims to reduce the 14-day quarantine period for international travellers. More details on that here.