At a press conference in Fredericton on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs announced that the province will move to Level 1 of the winter plan to manage COVID-19 on Friday, Feb. 18, at 11:59 p.m.

“Over the past few weeks, many New Brunswickers have done their part to put our province on the right track by getting vaccinated and getting their booster dose,” said Premier Higgs. “Because of the steps we have taken, hospitalizations and case numbers have begun to plateau, and the number of health-care workers in isolation is declining. Moving to Level 1 will be the first step in continuing to reduce and eliminate restrictions as we ease out of our winter plan.”

New Brunswick's proof of vaccination policy will remain in place as the province moves into Level 1, the least restrictive level of recovery. In Level 1, businesses which were required to reduce their capacity to 50 per cent under Level 2, including entertainment centres, gyms and restaurants, will be able to open to full capacity.

“As we transition to Level 1, we must all remain vigilant to protect ourselves, our families and our communities,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “This includes wearing a mask, getting vaccinated and getting a booster dose, and staying home when you do not feel well.”

Household gatherings will be limited to a maximum of any 20 people, and outdoor informal gatherings will be limited to a maximum of any 50 people. There is no longer a requirement for a household to have a steady number of contacts, such as a Steady 10 or Steady 20.