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N.B. changes definitions of COVID deaths and hospitalizations, launches Respiratory Watch

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New Brunswick has revamped the way it reports on COVID-19 again, including the launch of a new Respiratory Watch report that combines updates on both COVID-19 and influenza, and new definitions of COVID deaths and hospitalizations.

“With the arrival of the new respiratory illness season, it makes sense to monitor both of these diseases together so that New Brunswickers can be informed of the impacts these diseases are having on the health of the population,” Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, said in a statement.

The respiratory report, which is located on the province’s COVID-19 site, also includes only seasonal vaccination data and has a section dedicated to nursing home outbreaks.

The new format reflects similar reporting approaches in other provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, Russell said.

A COVID death is now defined as “a confirmed case who was admitted to hospital and whose death occurred during their stay.”

“A death due to COVID-19 or influenza does not mean that it was necessarily the primary or contributing factor to the cause of death,” Health Department spokesperson Sean Hatchard said in an emailed statement. “Therefore, only deaths that occur in hospital will be reported.”

Only COVID-19 deaths that occur in hospital will be reported now, the province announced Tuesday. (Evan Mitsui/CBC)

Since March 2022, Public Health has been reporting COVID deaths as those where the virus was either the primary cause of death or a directly contributing factor.

Previously, the province used the national surveillance case definition for a deceased COVID-19 case: a probable or confirmed COVID-19 case whose death resulted from a clinically compatible illness, unless a clear alternative cause of death is identified, such as trauma, poisoning, or drug overdose.

Deaths that occur outside hospital are subject to a reporting lag that can last months, said Hatchard, while in-hospital deaths are “a more timely indicator for disease severity.”

The pandemic death toll of 935 has also been dropped and replaced with a respiratory season total of zero.

Back to counting hospitalized ‘for’ and ‘with’ COVID

COVID hospitalizations, meanwhile, now include patients who have been hospitalized both for and with COVID-19, rather than only those who have been hospitalized because of complications from the disease.

“The department recognizes that both types of patients have an impact on the system,” said Hatchard.

Since April 2022, the province has been counting only people who were hospitalized because of the virus. People who were initially admitted to hospital for another reason and later tested positive for COVID were no longer included.

No deaths, 44 COVID hospitalizations, cases up

According to the new report, no COVID deaths occurred between Aug. 27 and Sept. 2.

That’s down from seven COVID deaths in the previous COVIDWatch report, which covered July 23 to Aug. 26.

While COVIDWatch provided only three age categories for deaths, with the youngest being under 50, Respiratory Watch includes five age categories — under four, five to 19, 20 to 44, 45 to 64, and 65 and older.

Forty-four people were hospitalized for or with COVID-19 during the latest reporting week, including one person who required intensive care, up from the 24 admitted to hospital because of the virus in the previous report.

One person was aged 20 to 44, three were 45 to 64 and the other 40 were 65 or older, including the one in ICU.

250% jump in hospitalizations at Horizon

Horizon Health Network, meanwhile, has seen a 250 per cent jump in the number of people it has hospitalized for or with COVID-19 in the past two weeks, its updated COVID-19 dashboard shows.

It has 42 active COVID-19 hospitalizations, as of Sept. 9, up from 12 on Aug. 26. Two people are in intensive care, up from one.

Vitalité has not updated its COVID website. Although the province and Horizon have both switched to bimonthly reports, as of Tuesday, it plans to continue with monthly updates “for the time being,” an unidentified spokesperson told CBC.

Horizon also reported COVID outbreaks on six hospital units, up from none, and 21 health-care workers off the job because they tested positive for the virus, up from 11.

A total of 95 new lab-confirmed cases of COVID have been reported across New Brunswick, an increase from the previous report week.

The positivity rate also increased, to 14 per cent, and eight lab-confirmed outbreaks were declared.

COVID activity is described as “moderate.”

No influenza activity has been recorded yet this respiratory season, which began Aug. 27.

Vaccination rate changes

As for vaccination data, the department will focus on how many people have received a vaccine for COVID-19 or influenza within the current respiratory illness season.

This is “in order to portray the level of protection in the community,” Hatchard said.

The statistics aren’t available on the Respiratory Watch page yet, but 31,113 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered between March 12 and Sept. 11, according to Hatchard. He did not provide the total eligible population.

A health-care worker prepares a dose of Pfizer's bivalent COVID-19 vaccine.
Health Canada has approved Moderna’s updated COVID-19 vaccine for all Canadians who are six months of age or older, but no information about when the shots will be available in New Brunswick has been released. (Kristopher Radder/The Associated Press)

On Tuesday, Health Canada approved Moderna’s updated COVID-19 vaccine, which targets the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant, for all Canadians six months or older.

Health Canada said Canadians age five and up should receive one dose. Children from six months to four years old should receive two doses if they have never had a COVID vaccine, or one dose if they’ve had at least one dose.

Public Health will be offering eligible New Brunswickers vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza this fall, said Russell. She could not provide details.

“In the meantime, Public Health recommends that patients speak with their health-care provider to determine the level of risk they may face if they choose to wait for the new vaccination formulation to arrive,” Russell said.

As it stands, the only New Brunswickers eligible since July 1 have been those aged 65 and older or those 18 and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised, who did not receive a spring booster and whose last shot or infection was at least five months ago, and new residents of long-term care facilities aged 18 and older who did not receive a spring booster and whose last shot and/or infection was at least five months ago.

Health Canada is still reviewing updated vaccines from other companies, including Pfizer-BioNTech’s Omicron XBB.1.5 vaccine for Canadians aged six months and older and Novavax’s shot for people aged 12 and older.

Nursing home outbreaks

Lab-confirmed COVID outbreaks were reported at two unidentified nursing homes in the province Aug. 27 to Sept. 2, while six outbreaks were reported in “other” vulnerable settings, the report shows. No other details are provided.

An outbreak is defined as two or more positive cases among residents or staff with an epidemiological link within 10 days.

Info on positive rapid tests and sequencing dropped

Submitted positive rapid test results will not be posted on the Respiratory Watch page.

“Now that the COVID-19 state of emergency has ended the department feels regular reporting of this information is no longer required,” said Hatchard.

In addition, the province is no longer including sequencing breakdowns for COVID-19.

Public Health will only confirm the presence or non-presence of a subvariant upon request, said Hatchard.

“It should be noted, however, that if the situation was to change, and a new subvariant was to emerge and pose more severe health risks to New Brunswickers, Public Health would inform the population as needed,” he said.

On Monday, Hatchard confirmed the highly mutated new Omicron variant BA.2.86 has not been detected in the province. “Nearly all circulating strains are of the XBB family,” he said.

The first Canadian case of BA.2.86, which has health experts watching closely� because of its high number of mutations, was recently confirmed in British Columbia. So far, it does not appear to be more severe.

 

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Several Vitamins Recalled Due to Potential Metal Contamination, Including Products Sold at Costco and Walmart

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Several types of vitamins, including some popular brands sold at major retailers like Costco and Walmart, are being recalled due to the possible presence of metal fibers. Health Canada issued three recall statements on Friday, highlighting the affected products and advising consumers on the necessary steps.

Among the brands involved in the recall is Kirkland Signature, a staple at Costco, along with Webber Naturals and other brands sold at multiple retailers across Canada, including Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart.

The vitamins listed in the recall are:

  • Kirkland Signature: B100 Complex Timed Release
  • Life: Vitamin B Complex with Vitamin C
  • Option+ & Life: Prenatal Multi-vitamins 100 Tablets with Folic Acid, Spectrum Prenatal Postpartum, Multivitamins & Minerals Women, Spectrum Women 22 Vitamins & Minerals plus Lutein, Lycopene
  • Webber Naturals: B50 Complex Timed Release, Most Complete Multi Womens 50+ One Per Day, Most Complete Multi Mens 50+ One Per Day, Vitamin B50 Complex
  • Wellness by London Drugs, Option+ & Life: Multi Women/Femmes 50+ with Lycopene and Lutein Multivitamin and Mineral, Multivitamin & Minerals Women 50+, 50+ SPECTRUM Women/Femmes 50+ 23 Vitamins & Minerals plus Lutein, Lycopene
  • Wellquest, Equate, Option+, Wellness by London Drugs & Life: Vitamin B100 Complex, Timed Release
  • Natural Factors: Hi Potency B Complex, RevitalX, Super Multi® IRON FREE
  • VegiDay Vegan Organic ALL IN ONE: VegiDay Vegan Organic ALL IN ONE

Health Canada advises consumers who have purchased any of the affected products to consult their healthcare provider before discontinuing use and to monitor for any health concerns.

Customers with concerns or questions can contact the recall firm directly. Additionally, any side effects or health product safety complaints should be reported to Health Canada.

For more detailed information, you can access the three Health Canada notices, which are listed under the Factors Group of Nutritional Companies Inc. recall, on the Health Canada website.

This recall serves as a reminder to consumers to stay vigilant about product safety and to follow recall advisories to ensure their health and well-being.

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8 Tips for Incorporating More Fruits into Your Dessert

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Incorporating more fruits into your desserts is not just a way to enhance flavours, but also a smart approach to add nutritional value to your treats. While desserts are often indulged as guilty pleasures, introducing fruits can transform these moments into healthier delights, enriching them with vitamins, minerals, and fibres. Whether you’re a home cook looking to improve your family’s diet or a culinary expert aiming to innovate your menu, adding fruits offers a myriad of benefits. These range from boosting the aesthetic appeal of your dishes with vibrant colours to enhancing the natural sweetness with a lower calorie count.

The tips provided here will help you seamlessly integrate more fruits into your dessert recipes, making them irresistibly wholesome and appealing to all ages. This approach not only caters to the health-conscious consumer but also opens up a palette of fresh, tantalizing flavours that can redefine what dessert means.

Explore Variety

Diversity is key in enriching desserts with fruits. Experiment with different textures and flavours, from berries to tropical fruits. This variety ensures each bite is unique and delightful. Try combining sour cherries with sweet mangoes, or add citrus segments to balance richer desserts. Even blending frozen bananas into a creamy texture can mimic ice cream. Consider adding a double fudge bar frozen dessert to your fruit platter for an indulgent twist.

Use Fresh and Seasonal Fruits

Seasonal fruits offer the best in flavour and nutrition. Incorporate fresh, local produce into your desserts to capture peak tastiness. Fresh strawberries or peaches can elevate simple dishes like ice cream or cakes. Local farmers’ markets are ideal for finding the freshest options. Remember, the closer the fruit is grown to its consumption point, the more nutrients it retains. This approach supports local agriculture as well.

Make Fruit the Star

Create desserts where fruits are the main attraction. Dishes like fruit tarts or berry-packed pavlovas highlight the natural sweetness of fruits, reducing the need for added sugars. Let fruits dictate the dessert’s flavour profile and design, focusing on the natural colours to attract the eye. This strategy can make even simple dishes feel luxurious and crafted with care. Plus, it often leads to lighter, less calorie-dense desserts.

Opt for Healthier Preparations

Instead of always baking or frying, try raw preparations or use healthier cooking methods like grilling or poaching. Grilled pineapple or poached pears offer a delightful texture and are easy to prepare. These methods preserve the integrity and nutritional value of the fruit better than baking or frying. Cooking fruit in this way can also unlock new flavours, enhancing your dessert experience. Try brushing fruit with a little honey or maple syrup before grilling for a caramelized finish.

Experiment with Spices

Spices can enhance the natural flavour of fruits. A dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla complements fruits like apples and pears beautifully, adding complexity to any dessert. Nutmeg and ginger are also excellent with juicy fruits like peaches and plums. Experimenting with spices can transform a simple fruit dish into an exotic and enticing dessert. Such additions are simple but effective ways to elevate the taste without added sugar.

Incorporate Dried Fruits

Dried fruits are concentrated in flavour and can be a great addition to desserts. Sprinkle raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates over oatmeal cookies or mix them into homemade granola bars for a chewy texture. Dried fruits work well in baked goods because they provide a burst of sweetness and texture. They are also perfect for decorating cakes and adding to snack mixes. Be mindful of the sugar content in store-bought dried fruits, opting for unsweetened varieties when available.

Create Colourful Fruit Layers

Layer fruits in parfaits, trifles, or cakes to create visually appealing and delicious desserts. Layers of colourful fruits not only look spectacular, but also offer varied flavours and textures. This layering technique can be applied in smoothie bowls and gelatin desserts for a stunning visual effect. Try to choose fruits that contrast in colour and texture for the most striking presentations. These desserts are particularly appealing to children and can make eating fruit more exciting for them.

Finish with A Healthy Twist

Top off your desserts with a nutritious twist, such as a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts and seeds for extra crunch and nutrients. These additions provide a contrast in textures and increase the health benefits of your dessert. Nuts add healthy fats and proteins, making the dessert more satisfying. Consider using a drizzle of natural sweeteners like honey or agave nectar to enhance flavour without resorting to refined sugars. Such finishes not only improve taste but also boost nutritional value, aligning with a healthier lifestyle.

Incorporating fruits into your desserts is an enjoyable way to make your sweet dishes healthier and more flavourful. By using fruits in various forms, from frozen to dried, and employing them in creative ways, such as natural sweeteners or vibrant toppings, you can transform any dessert into a delightful and nutritious treat. So next time you prepare a dessert, remember these tips and enjoy the added benefits of fruits in your culinary creations.

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5 Life-Transforming Tips to Make it More Fun-Filled

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Everyone wants to make the most out of life. From personal life to establishing a successful career, enjoyment is all that people crave the most. But the key to happiness is having fun most of the time. It can be challenging to find time and moments of fun in the routine as life becomes boring and dull for many.

However, you can cultivate your mindset and embrace more pleasure and laughter in your everyday routine. To transform your boring and dull life into a fun-filled one, here are a few tips that you can consider in this blog.

Read on to explore!

 

1.    Start Enjoying Little Moments

The fun doesn’t need to come from an extensive and spectacular event happening around your life all the time. There are so many small moments in your life that can turn into more fun. All you have to do is embrace those little times in your life and be happy.

For example, you can give yourself a little break from a hectic day and enjoy some chocolate. Or you can make time to enjoy things that you like.

 

2.    Be Spontaneous In Life

Just like life becomes unexpected most of the time, you can be a little unpredictable with it as well. To bring fun to your life, you can work on being more open to new and unplanned experiences.

If you get an invitation for any activity, event, or sport, don’t say no to it. Getting to indulge in more social activities will help you create new memories and experience new thrills in life.

 

3.    Bring a Furry Friend in Life

A boring life can easily distance you from fun. To embrace joy in life, having a furry company can do wonders. You can cherish love and warmth and have little moments of joy with a furry one.

If you don’t have a furry companion, you’re majorly missing joy. It’s time for you to look for the best puppy-selling company, such as Fou Fou Puppie’s website, to bring a cute puppy into your life.

 

4.    Practice Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness will help you to live the present to the fullest. As most people worry more about their future, it makes them overlook the current joys of life.

What you can consider best to bring fun to your life is practicing mindfulness for at least 2 minutes. Let go of all the thoughts that pop into your head and focus on the positive aspects of living.

 

5.    Participate More in Fun Activities

There should be no excuse for having fun in life as there are many low-cost fun activities for the community that you can explore to have fun. It can be simple, but it prevents you from living a boring and less-inspiring life.

For example, you can call your group of friends to have coffee together and share more laughter, or you can go to the movies to unwind yourself. These activities will not cost you a fortune and allow you to make the most out of your day, week, and month.

 

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