N.B. COVID-19 roundup: 5 new cases announced Sunday; pharmacists prepare for busy week

New Brunswick is reporting five new cases of COVID-19 on Sundayas pharmacists prepare to roll up sleeves and offer shots.

The latest numbers, including one additional recovery, bring the total number of active cases up to 37. One person is in the hospital related to the virus.

All regions remain in the yellow recovery phase.

The new cases include:

In the Moncton region (Zone 1), there is one travel-related case:

• A person 19 and under.

In the Fredericton region (Zone 3), there is one travel-related case:

• A person in their 30s.

In the Edmundston region (Zone 4), there are three cases under investigation:

• A person in their 50s.
• Two people in their 60s.

New Brunswick has confirmed 1,470cases since the start of the pandemic, including 1,402recoveries. Public Health has conducted 240,383 tests, including 613 on Saturday.

Vaccine clinics at pharmacies

New Brunswickers ages 85 and older are now eligible to book appointments with pharmacies to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

More than 200 locations across the province are starting to receive shipments this week, primarily of the Moderna version, with some starting clinics as early as Wednesday.

Caregivers or family members are also able to book an appointment on behalf of a person in that age group.

For people under 85, officials are urging New Brunswickers not to call doctors, pharmacies or 811 until an announcement is made about their age group.Family doctors are not currently offering the vaccine and should not be contacted.

Horizon Health Network and Vitalit Health Network will also be setting up clinicsforadditional groups, including first responders, unvaccinated health-care workers and individuals with complex medical conditions.

More information will be provided to these groups directly, including details on how to book an appointment.

Second doses will be administered 14-16 weeks after the first shot.

The province's updated vaccination rollout plan aims to offer a first dose to every New Brunswicker by the end of June.

What to do if you have asymptom

People concerned they might have COVID-19 symptoms cantake a self-assessment test online.

Public Health says symptoms shown by people with COVID-19 have included:

• A fever above 38 C.

• A new cough or worsening chronic cough.

• Sore throat.

• Runny nose.

• Headache.

• New onset of fatigue, muscle pain, diarrhea, loss of sense of taste or smell.

• Difficulty breathing.

• In children, symptoms have also included purple markings on the fingers and toes.

  People with one of those symptoms should:

• Stay at home.

• Call Tele-Care 811 or their doctor.

• Describe symptoms and travel history.

• Follow instructions.