New Brunswick reported three new cases of the coronavirus on Wednesday.
Two of the new cases were detected in the Saint John region and one in the Bathurst region.
There are 94 known active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
Chief of health Dr. Jennifer Russell said there are currently “record numbers” of New Brunswickers self-isolating.
In a provincial update on COVID-19, Russell said that New Brunswickers must know where and how to isolate themselves, and advised everyone to plan ahead in case they have to.
“Being ready for self-isolation means having to rely on others,” she said.
Health officials said New Brunswick is ramping up testing this week to strengthen response to new rising numbers.
Public Health is increasing hours and capacity at Saint John and Rothesay assessment facilities.
Health Minister Dorothy Shephard said in the update that Horizon Health is also increasing capacity in Fredericton at the Capital Exhibition Centre assessment on Wednesday, and an additional location later this week.
Holiday loneliness anticipated
Dr. Russell strongly encouraged New Brunswickers to avoid any travel or gathering these coming holidays, and hopes people would reconsider Christmas plans.
“If you have made plans to travel and gather I hope that you cancel them.”
Shephard said she knows this is difficult for New Brunswickers, but it is necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19.
“COVID-19 fatigue is real,” Shephard said. It’s not a diagnosis, it’s a description of symptoms and frustrations with the prolonged pandemic response, she said.
She said people have experienced this for the majority of 2020 and said “those feelings will be even stronger during the holiday season.”
“It is important to know that you are not alone in feeling the way you do,” Shephard said.
Social isolation and loneliness will impact those who are at-risk of serious illness from COVID-19 the most.
Shephard urged New Brunswickers to take care of their emotional health in the days to come.
“Pay attention to how you are feeling and take necessary steps… exercise regularly, eat healthy meals, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs.”
She said having a routine and staying in touch with loved ones through technology can help get through the fatigue.
Shephard said she hopes New Brunswickers will work together to change the trajectory of rising coronavirus cases in the province.
Both Moncton and Saint John regions remain in the orange phase of New Brunswick’s COVID-19 recovery.