COVID-19: More than 400 NB health workers isolated, 3 new deaths reported – New Brunswick | The Canadian News

New Brunswick reported three more COVID-19 deaths on Thursday as the total count since the start of the pandemic approached 200.

The deaths include one person in their 50s, one in their 70s and one in their 80s.

There are currently 124 active COVID-19 hospitalizations, another new record for the province. Nine of the 12 patients in intensive care are on a ventilator.

Of those currently admitted to the hospital, 71 were admitted for reasons other than COVID-19, according to a news release.

The province says there are 4,389 known active cases of the virus, including 488 new PCR-confirmed cases reported Thursday. There are also an additional 953 quick test positives reported in the past day, although the province says the number may not be accurate because the results themselves are reported.

There are now 417 healthcare workers in New Brunswick who are isolating after testing positive for COVID-19.

With so many hospital workers off work and hospitalizations on the rise, the province is encouraging residents to be vaccinated further.

Since January 10, when booster doses became available to anyone 18 years and older, more than 41,000 appointments have been booked, the province says. There are currently 30,000 appointments available between now and January 31, according to the release.

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“We are seeing more and more people getting their booster shots and I encourage everyone to book their appointment or attend a walk-in clinic as we know this is the best defense against the Omicron variant,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer, said. of health in the release.

The province also continues to encourage parents and guardians to vaccinate their qualifying children between the ages of five and 11. Those who have already received their first dose will soon be eligible to receive their second one, as long as eight weeks have elapsed since their first dose.

“When children are protected against COVID-19, they are less likely to contract the virus and spread the virus to others,” Russell said in the release.

“By being vaccinated, children will be better positioned to stay healthy when learning resumes in class. This will make it safer for children to play together on our playgrounds, sports fields and hockey rinks.

“We have to help our children to be children again.”

Russell noted in the release that the vaccine is safe for children, adding that “Health Canada’s drug review process is recognized around the world for its high standards.”