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More than a dozen schools close in New Brunswick as COVID-19 cases continue to rise

Oct 4, 2021 | 9:02 AM

FREDERICTON — Another sharp jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in New Brunswick is forcing more than a dozen schools to close.

The growing number of closures follows reports on the weekend indicating the province’s latest surge in infections is showing no signs of letting up. 

Health officials on Sunday reported 93 new cases and two virus-related deaths, bringing the pandemic’s overall death toll in the province to 66.

As of Sunday, the province was dealing with 759 active cases, which is more than triple the number in neighbouring Nova Scotia.

Meanwhile, New Brunswick is also reporting a rising number of hospitalizations, with 45 people in hospital with COVID-19 and 20 in intensive care — numbers that are roughly four times higher than in Nova Scotia.

On Saturday, New Brunswick reported its highest single-day increase for COVID-19 infections, with 140 new cases recorded and an additional four deaths attributed to the virus.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2021.

The Canadian Press