Dr. Jennifer Russell, the chief medical health officer for New Brunswick (Image: CPAC video capture)
New Brunswick’s chief medical officer of health has revealed two so-called COVID-19 ‘superspreader’ events in the Saint John region (Zone 2) which now account for 80 percent of the cases in that area.
Dr. Jennifer Russell says many cases (at least 60) have been traced to only two venues and she believes asymptomatic individuals may have unknowingly spread the virus to others.
She has reiterated the need for New Brunswickers to continue following Public Health guidelines.
Today (December 1), the province has reported seven new cases of COVID-19.
In the Saint John region (Zone 2), there are four cases:
- one individual under 19
- one individuals in their 20s
- two individuals in their 50s
In the Fredericton region (Zone 3), there are three cases:
- one individual under 19
- one individual in their 50s
- one individual in their 60s
All of these cases are said to be self-isolating and are under investigation.
In the outbreak at the Shannex Parkland Saint John seniors facility, Dr. Russell says five employees and ten residents have tested positive for the virus with nearly 70 being tested so far.
“We are making strides toward returning Zones 1, 2 and 3 to the Yellow level of recovery, but we are not there yet,” said Dr. Russell.
“If we all remain vigilant and do our best to keep COVID-19 from spreading, I am confident we can achieve this goal.”
New Brunswick now has 116 active cases with more recoveries since Monday.
No one is currently in hospital.
Public Health has identified potential public exposure to the virus at the following locations in Zone 2:
- Cask and Kettle on Nov. 17 between 8 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. (112 Prince William St., Saint John);
- Churchill’s Pub on Nov. 20 between 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. (8 Grannan St., Saint John).
- Picaroons on Nov. 21 between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. (30 Canterbury St., Saint John).
- Thandi’s Restaurant on Nov. 21 between 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. (33 Canterbury St., Saint John).
If you were at any of these locations, self monitor and follow all Public Health guidelines.
If you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 and do not need to talk to a nurse, complete the self-assessment and get tested.
