COVID-19 claims six more lives in New Brunswick as officials urge booster shots

FREDERICTON — New Brunswick health officials are reporting six more deaths related to COVID-19, confirming that five of the latest victims were over the age of 80.

There were 125 people recovering in hospital from an infection as of Saturday morning, though 74 of those patients had been admitted for other reasons.

There were also 12 patients in intensive care and six people were using a ventilator.

Of those in hospital, 82 per cent were over the age of 60 and only two were under 19.

On another front, health officials issued a statement Saturday reminding residents that booster doses are available to everyone 18 and older, as long as five months have passed since their second dose.

To date, 61.2 per cent of eligible New Brunswickers 50 and older have received their booster dose.

“We know that people who are fully vaccinated and have a booster dose have much better protection against serious illness or hospitalization from COVID-19,” Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, said in a statement.

“I urge everyone who is eligible, especially people 50 and older, to book an appointment for their booster right away if they have not yet done so.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 22, 2022.

The Canadian Press