Testing for COVID-19 in New Brunswick is being expanded to capture more potential cases of the disease.
Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, announced that testing would now be recommended for people exhibiting at least two of the following five symptoms:
- fever above 38°C;
- a new cough or worsening chronic cough;
- sore throat;
- runny nose; and
- headache.
Those who are exhibiting at least two of these symptoms are advised to immediately self-isolate and contact 811 or their family physician for further direction.
Symptoms can range from relatively mild (runny nose and sore throat) to severe such as difficulty breathing.
“Having two of these five symptoms does not mean that you have COVID-19,” said Russell. “But by isolating yourself quickly, you lessen the chance that the disease will spread to your family, neighbours and the wider community, if you are infected.”
On Monday, the province announced two new cases for an overall total of 116 confirmed cases.
Of the total, 66 are travel-related, 36 are close contacts of confirmed cases, seven are the result of community transmission and seven remain under investigation.
During the pandemic, 12 people have been hospitalized and seven have since been discharged.
Three of the five patients remaining in hospital are in an intensive care unit.
To date, 74 people have recovered.
The new cases are:
- An individual aged 40-49 in Zone 3 (Fredericton region)
- An individual aged 50-59 in Zone 5 (Campbellton region)
