New Brunswick has recorded a 34th death related to COVID-19.
Public Health has confirmed an individual in their 60s in the Saint John region (Zone 2) has died as a result of the coronavirus.
“I am saddened to learn that another individual has lost their life as a result of COVID-19,” said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard. “On behalf of all New Brunswickers, I share my sincere condolences with the family and friends of this person.”
“I wish to send my deepest sympathies to the loved ones of this person during this incredibly difficult time,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “This death is a tragic reminder that COVID-19 is still all around us, and we must all continue to take precautions and follow the guidance of Public Health to slow the spread of the virus.”
Seven new cases of COVID-19 are being reported today (April 21) as follows:
- One case in the Moncton region (Zone 1) is an individual 20-29. This case is travel related.
- Two cases in the Saint John region (Zone 2): an individual 50-59; and an individual 90 and over. Both of these cases are contacts of previously confirmed cases.
- Three cases in the Edmundston region (Zone 4): an individual 19 and under; an individual 40-49; and an individual 50-59. Two of the three cases are contacts of previously confirmed cases and the other is under investigation.
- One case in the Miramichi region (Zone 7) is an individual 40-49. This case is travel related.
Seven people have recovered since Tuesday and the number of active cases is now 138.
Fifteen people are in hospital, including five in an intensive care unit.
Public Health says a possible exposure to a positive case of COVID-19 has been confirmed at Garderie Happy Feet Daycare in Grand Falls and families affected have been notified.
Potential public exposures to the virus have been identified at the following locations:
- E.& P. Sénéchal Center (Vitalité Health Network vaccination clinic) at 60 Ouellette St., Grand Falls, on Monday, April 19 between 1:15 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Holy Spirit Parish (Saint Matthews worship site) at 45 Dollard Dr., Saint John, on Sunday, April 18 between 11 a.m. and noon.
Meantime, Public Health has declared outbreaks at two special care homes today following a confirmed case of COVID-19 at each facility.
The Provincial Rapid Outbreak Management Team is now providing support for residents and the facility’s care team at Pavillon Beau-Lieu, a special care home in Grand Falls, in Zone 4 (Edmundston region) and Murray Street Lodge in Grand Bay-Westfield in Zone 2 (Saint John region).
All pregnant women in New Brunswick are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine regardless of whether they have any other medical conditions.
Prior to today, Public Health prioritized pregnant women with two or more chronic medical conditions for vaccination, given the evidence that severe morbidity from COVID-19 appeared to be greater in women with such risk factors.
Pregnant women can now schedule an appointment to receive their vaccine at a Horizon Health Network or Vitalité Health Network community clinic by registering online.
If they are unable to book an appointment online, they can call 1-833-437-1424.