Release:

Two more New Brunswickers have lost their lives to the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing the total of lives lost to six.

Public Health confirmed that an individual aged 70 to 79 died in Zone 1 (Moncton region) and that an individual aged 40 to 49 died in Zone 5 (Campbellton region), both because of underlying complications, including COVID-19.

“It is a sad day in our province as we learn that two more people have died from COVID-19,” said Premier Blaine Higgs. “Marcia and I express our deepest condolences to the families and friends who are grieving the loss of these fellow New Brunswickers. Today’s news is a heartbreaking reminder that we all must do everything we can to slow and prevent the spread of this disease.”

“I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the individuals, as well as to all of those in the Campbellton-Restigouche and Moncton regions,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “The impact this virus is having on all of us is indescribable. Kindness and compassion, along with strict adherence to two metre distancing, and mask use are how we will get through this together.”

New cases

Public Health reported two new cases of COVID-19 today, as follows:

• one individual 40 to 49 in Zone 5 (Campbellton region). This case is self-isolating and is under investigation; and
• one individual 20 to 29 in Zone 3 (Fredericton region). This case is self-isolating and is travel related.

The number of confirmed cases in New Brunswick is 328 and 257 have recovered. There have been six deaths, and the number of active cases is 65. Four patients are hospitalized. As of today, 96,747 tests have been conducted.

Zone 5 remains in orange level with an additional measure

Zone 5 remains in the Orange level of recovery with an additional restriction to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the region.

It is recommended that residents limit their contact to a single household bubble plus a formal or informal caregiver or member of their immediate family (a parent, child, sibling or grandparent).

The purpose is to guard against mental health issues for someone who lives alone, or to ensure someone who needs care is able to receive it. It is not intended to mean all family members including adult siblings, parents, etc. can gather as one family unit.

COVID-19 testing in Zone 5

Testing is available today from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the Inch Arran Arena in Dalhousie for individuals who do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 but want to be tested.

No appointment is necessary. Screening tests will be done on a first-come, first-served basis. Asymptomatic people do not need to self-isolate while awaiting results, unless advised to do so by Public Health.

People with symptoms are asked to request a test online or call Tele-Care 811 to get an appointment at the nearest screening centre.