RCMP members exposed to COVID-19 while responding to call for service

January 31, 2021
Moncton, New Brunswick

News release

One member of the Codiac Regional RCMP has tested positive for COVID-19 following exposure to the virus while responding to a call for service.

On January 27, 2021, police responded to a report of a disturbance in Moncton. While on scene, they learned that one of the individuals they were interacting with had tested positive for COVID-19.

"Members were wearing face coverings," says Cpl. Hans Ouellette, media relations officer for the New Brunswick RCMP. "As soon as they became aware of the positive case, they followed protocols to limit their exposure and reduce the risk for anyone else. That includes rigorous sanitizing of equipment, self-isolation for the involved members, and extensive COVID-19 testing."

Despite best efforts, one member who attended the scene has since tested positive for COVID-19.

The New Brunswick RCMP is working closely with Public Health to carefully monitor and assess the situation, including providing extensive contact tracing information for members of the public who may have been in contact with the affected members. As it is possible the exposure was unrelated to the call for service, this includes a window prior to the incident on January 27. Precautionary testing and other measures are also underway for any RCMP employees with potential secondary exposure.

"I want to assure you were are taking this situation very seriously, and public safety is our primary concern. That includes ensuring we have appropriate resources in place to provide policing services while we manage this current situation," says Cpl. Ouellette.

Anyone who may be at risk of exposure to COVID-19 related to this situation will be contacted by Public Health.

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Contact information

Cpl. Hans Ouellette
Media Relations Officer
New Brunswick RCMP
506-452-4252

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