News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) - Public Health reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 today.

The three cases in Zone 1 (Moncton region) are as follows:

• two people 50-59; and

• one individual 60-69.

The seven cases in Zone 2 (Saint John region) are as follows:

• three people 20-29; and

• four people 30-39.

These cases are self-isolating and under investigation.

The two cases in Zone 3 (Fredericton region) are people 60-69. These cases are travel-related and are self-isolating.

“There should be no non-essential travel in and out of, or between Orange zones,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “Get tested even if you have mild symptoms.”

The number of confirmed cases in New Brunswick is 477 and 356 have recovered. There have been seven deaths, and the number of active cases is 114 with one hospitalized case. As of today, 121,542 tests have been conducted.

Schools in Orange zones

In zones under the Orange alert level, staff and students of all ages need to wear a mask at all times in school and while on school buses. Masks may be removed when students are eating, drinking, or engaged in sports or physical education classes. In addition, students in kindergarten to Grade 8 can remove their mask if they are working silently at their desk.

Physical education classes should focus on activities that allow for physical distancing, such as yoga, dancing and moderate walking. Extracurricular activities, including interscholastic and extramural sports, will be limited to skills and drills practices within one team. More information is available on the Return to School website.

No use of wind instruments is allowed while in the Orange level.

Child care in Orange zones

While attending child care, children under the age of five are not required to wear a face mask within their group, but children over the age of two need to wear one in common areas. Children and staff should bring at least two clean face masks. Children of any age cannot change groupings or “bubbles” while an area is in the Orange level. Child-care staff should screen anyone entering the facilities, however temperature checks are not required. Pick up and drop off will be arranged outside as parents or guardians cannot enter the facilities.

Remain seated at licensed premises

Licensed premises such as bars or restaurants in areas in the Yellow or Orange levels of recovery must ensure all patrons are seated at all times, except to enter and exit the premises and to go to and from washrooms. This change is to minimize interactions and close contacts while allowing these facilities to continue to operate.