News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Public Health reported 20 new cases of COVID-19 today.

The 10 cases in Zone 1 (Moncton region) are as follows:

• four people 19 and under;
• an individual 20-29;
• an individual 30-39;
• an individual 50-59;
• two people 60-69; and
• an individual 70-79.

The nine cases in Zone 4 (Edmundston region) are as follows:

• two people 19 and under;
• an individual 20-29;
• an individual 40-49;
• three people 50-59;
• an individual 60-69: and
• an individual 80-89.

The one case in Zone 7 (Miramichi region) is as follows:

• an individual 50-59.

All cases are self-isolating and under investigation.

The number of confirmed cases in New Brunswick is 1,124 and 776 have recovered. There have been 13 deaths, and the number of active cases is 334. Five patients are hospitalized with two in intensive care. As of today, 185,936 tests have been conducted.

“We are seeing encouraging trends, but the reliability of this information depends on those who have symptoms getting tested immediately, said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “We will be more confident in our decision making - and zone restrictions are more likely to be eased - if more New Brunswickers, in all health zones, who have symptoms get tested.”

Schools near Zone 4

Monday, Jan. 25 will be an operational response day at Andover Elementary School, Perth-Andover Middle School and Southern Victoria High School in Perth-Andover, as well as Donald Fraser Memorial School and Tobique Valley High School in Plaster Rock.

As of Tuesday, students will learn from home, either virtually or through paper-based learning kits. This is due to operational challenges as a significant portion of the school community lives within Zone 4. Staff in Zone 4 will work from home during this period, while staff in Zone 3 can continue to work from their respective schools. Attendance may be different for some students identified as vulnerable, schools will contact families directly.

A device-loaning program will be available for families of students in Grades 3-8 who do not have access to technology at home. If required, delivery or drive-through pick-up processes will be available for families who need to access to materials or supplies for their children. More information will be available through your school or school district.

IT support is available for students and staff experiencing any connectivity issues related to online learning by calling 1-833-453-1140.

Zone 4 in lockdown

Zone 4 (Edmundston region) is in lockdown as per the province’s mandatory order. A detailed list of lockdown restrictions, including what can remain open and what must close, is available online. These restrictions are expected to stay in place for a minimum of 14 days.

Reminder of Red and Orange level rules

Zones 1, 2 and 3 remain at the Red level under the province’s COVID-19 recovery plan. Zones 5, 6 and 7 remain at the Orange level.