Zone 5 Outbreak Being Taken ‘Very Seriously’

Blaine Higgs assured New Brunswickers on Friday when he said the situation in Campbellton involving eight active cases of COVID-19 is being taken “very seriously.”

During Friday’s media briefing, the premier spoke of the case involving a healthcare worker in their 30s who works at a care home.

“Public health has a rapid response team on-site at the facility. We are using rapid test kits that give a response with 45 minutes. We want to test every resident and employee of that facility,” Higgs said.

Premier Higgs said we expected to see more cases and he encourages people living in Zone 5 to get tested.

“I don’t want anyone to fear coming forward if they have symptoms and they think they might have COVID-19. In fact, just the opposite, they should be honest and they should get tested. Getting the virus is not your fault,” Higgs said.

Premier Higgs takes the mic. Speaking about a long-term care worker testing positive, "We are taking this very seriously".

— Tamara Steele (@tamarasteele1) May 29, 2020

As for the medical professional involved who traveled and did not self-isolate but kept seeing patients, Higgs repeated the matter has been referred to the RCMP.

“I know people are upset but we don’t want anyone taking matters into their own hands. Vitalite has confirmed that the healthcare professional involved has been suspended. This situation is best left to the proper authorities,” Higgs said.

The premier said anyone who wants to be tested in Zone 5 will have to make an appointment by calling 811.