Dr. Jennifer Russell is the chief medical officer of health for New Brunswick. (Government of New Brunswick/Submitted)
New Brunswick’s top doctor says health officials are doing everything they can to capture more potential cases of COVID-19.
The province has come under fire in recent weeks for its low testing numbers compared to some other jurisdictions.
But Dr. Jennifer Russell, the chief medical officer of health, said they continue to broaden testing criteria as the risk changes
“We are seeing the number of tests go up, but with respect to capacity and demand, we’re not at 1,000 [tests per day] yet, which is what we are capable of doing,” said Russell in a one-on-one interview Friday.
“I think we’ve seen upwards of 500 tests a day. Even with that amount of testing, we’re not seeing a whole lot of new cases.”
On Monday, the province announced anyone experiencing at least two of the following five symptoms would be recommended for testing:
- fever above 38°C
- a new cough or worsening chronic cough
- sore throat
- runny nose
- headache
Those who are experiencing at least two of those symptoms should self-isolate and call 8-1-1 or their family physician for further direction.
Despite the broadening testing criteria, Russell said some cases may not be detected because some people have very mild or no symptoms.
But she noted the number of hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions is usually reflective of the total proportion of cases.
“Because we’re not seeing those numbers going up significantly, it reassures me a little bit that we don’t have a ton of asymptomatic transmission happening out there or transmission that we’re not picking up,” said Russell.
Russell said Public Health is doing everything they can to make sure anyone who needs a test gets one.
Seventeen testing centres are located around the province and another one will open in Saint John on Monday. But what if you are unable to make it to one of the centres?
“We feel their locations are accessible to people in rural areas as well as those in urban centres, but in extreme cases when somebody can’t get to a testing centre then we actually can provide transportation for them,” said Russell.
Russell said she is proud of all New Brunswickers and grateful things are going well here, but warned we cannot let our guard down just yet.
She said New Brunswick need to stay home as much as possible, and if they do go out, it is important to follow physical distancing and washing your hands frequently.
“The next few weeks are gonna be crucial in terms of planking the curve and keeping the numbers low and limiting the transmission of COVID-19,” said Russell.
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