"Staying inside can save lives." That's the message from Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health.

In the wake of Monday's sad news of five more COVID-19 related deaths in Alberta, Dr. Deena Hinshaw says we must redouble our efforts to protect those who are most vulnerable to the virus.

Hinshaw says following public health guidance will save lives and provided an update on quarantine rules.

Under the federal Quarantine Act, any Canadian who is under self-isolation must remain on their property for the duration of the self-isolation time.

Some provinces, including Alberta, had previously been allowing those in self-isolation who were feeling well to go for walks off their property. However Dr. Hinshaw says that has since changed and there is now a uniform recommendation across the country.

"If you are quarantined because you recently came back from outside the country, or if you are a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19, you must remain on your own property (rented or owned)," says Hinshaw. "You are only permitted to go outdoors on your deck, in your yard, or on a balcony. Under no circumstances should you leave your property during the 14 days of self isolation."

Hinshaw says this means that anyone under mandatory self-isolation can no longer go for walks in their neighbourhood or at the park until the self-isolation period ends.

"Do not have visitors over, do not go to public areas and spaces or community settings. Arrange to have someone pick up essentials like groceries and medication for you," Hinshaw says. "People who live in apartment buildings or high rises must stay inside their unit and cannot use the elevators or stairwells to go outside."

Hinshaw says this applies to everyone under mandatory self-isolation, including those who are feeling well and those who have symptoms of COVID-19. She acknowledges that it's difficult, but says it must be done to protect each other.