Two new cases of the novel coronavirus were identified in New Brunswick on Monday, bringing the total number of cases in the province to 103.
At a press briefing, Dr. Jennifer Russell, the province’s chief medical officer of health, said the new cases are of individuals in the Moncton region in their 30s and 40s. Both are connected to previous known cases.
“We are faring better than other jurisdictions… Hospital admission is relatively few,” said Russell.
Story continues below advertisement
“Community transmission is relatively rare and that’s why we shouldn’t relax,” she added.
Get weekly health news
Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.
Russell stressed continuing to maintain physical distancing, avoid gatherings and thoroughly wash hands.
Premier Blaine Higgs announced at the press briefing that a pandemic task force has been established by the provincial government to help combat COVID-19.
How to practice social distancing during the coronavirus outbreak
Higgs said the task force will be vested with decision-making authority about the pandemic response for all aspects of the health-care system, including the regional health authorities, Extra-Mural and Ambulance New Brunswick, primary care and the long-term care system.“We need to empower, expedite and facilitate the essential workers who are putting themselves at risk to protect us all,” said Higgs. “This approach will implement actions and deploy resources across all aspects of the health-care system.”The task force consists of Russell along with Dr. Gordon Dow, infectious disease specialist of Horizon Health Network; Dr. Nicole LeBlanc, chief of staff of Vitalité Health Network; and Gérald Richard, deputy minister of Health.In a statement released on Monday, the province also said a clinical group of experts with relevant practice experience will be called upon to provide advice that will inform or validate the decisions of the task force.“The situation demands that the province be able to react rapidly and effectively to ensure we minimize the impacts of this insidious virus on our citizens,” said Health Minister Hugh J. Flemming, who attended the press briefing.“This task force has been granted clear authority to ensure timely and effective decisions are made in real time.”
Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.
Comments