Right now is a very strange time to be living through. The spread of COVID-19 in Canada has everyone on edge. The country is cracking down on people who aren't obeying quarantine rules, and that now includes arresting a man for coughing on someone.

In a March 26 media release, the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force in New Brunswick announced that they had placed a man under arrest for assault after he purposely coughed on someone while feeling ill.

Officers were initially called to a disturbance on Hampton Road in Rothesay, where an argument was taking place.

"The occupants there were in a dispute over two people who were not properly self isolating after recent international travel," the release states.

It goes on to say that anyone who suspects someone is not self-isolating properly should not take matters into their own hands.

The release urges New Brunswick residents to contact the COVID-19 non-compliance line at 1-844-462-8387 if they need to report any instances of improper quarantine procedure.

"During these difficult times, we ask everyone to respect the health and safety of all individuals," the release states, "including first responders and health care professionals by refraining from irresponsible and needless behaviours such as this."

The Government of Canada recently put the Quarantine Act into effect. All travellers returning to the country are legally required to self-isolate.

They can face steep penalties, which could include fines and prison sentences if they do not comply.

Police in Newfoundland recently arrested a 53-year-old woman for not properly self-isolating. She now faces a fine of $2,500 and possibly time in jail.

Canada's Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, recently stated that more than half of all COVID-19 cases in Canada are now spread through community transmission.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has made it clear that not social distancing or self-isolating can have serious consequences.