Press Release
02 October 2020
FREDERICTON (GNB) – Public Health is providing guidance on fall activities, including steps New Brunswickers can take to prepare for a safe Thanksgiving and Halloween.
“They may look different this year, but with some planning we can still enjoy these special occasions safely,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health.
It is recommended that residents have small Thanksgiving gatherings this year and hold them outside if weather permits. Hand sanitizer should be made available and everyone should wash their hands before preparing food or eating.
Those planning to participate in Halloween activities should keep cleanliness in mind. People who are handing out treats should sanitize their hands between visitors, keep high-touch areas such as door handles and railings clean and consider offering non-food treats like stickers or coloured pencils. Trick-or-treaters should wash their hands before heading out and upon returning home.
The full recommendations are available online.
Reminder to wear a face mask when physical distance is not possible
Premier Blaine Higgs reminded New Brunswickers that using face masks continues to be mandatory while in public whenever safe physical distancing is not possible, according to the province’s state of emergency order.
“We must all keep doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Higgs said. “This includes wearing a face mask whenever we find ourselves in a situation where a physical distance of at least two metres cannot be maintained.”
Higgs said that if New Brunswickers do not comply with the emergency order by wearing masks when required, a mandatory mask policy could be implemented as soon as Thursday, Oct. 8.
“Staying in the Yellow level of recovery is essential to maintaining health, and keeping our economy and schools open,” Higgs said. “Although I prefer not to make mask use mandatory in public spaces, I know it may soon be necessary.”
No new cases
Public Health reported no new cases of COVID-19 today. The number of confirmed cases in New Brunswick is 200 and 193 have recovered. There have been two deaths, and the number of active cases is five. As of today, 78,635 tests have been conducted
State of emergency extended
The state of emergency mandatory order was renewed on Thursday under the authority of the Emergency Measures Act.
Media Contact(s)
Bruce Macfarlane, communications, Department of Health, 506-444-4583, bruce.macfarlane@gnb.ca.
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