Here is a summary thread of today’s #COVID19AB public health date.

In the last 24 hours, we confirmed 96 new cases of COVID-19 in Alberta, bringing our total to 968.

We suspect 108 cases are the result of community transmission, an increase of 14 from yesterday. (1/8)
I’m pleased to report that 174 people have now recovered—32 more than yesterday.

Our lab continues to work at maximum capacity, and we have conducted more than 4000 tests in the last 24 hours. (2/8)
Sadly, there were 2 more deaths since yesterday. One was a man in his 90s at the McKenzie Towne Continuing Care Centre in Calgary. Another was a man in his 80s in the North Zone.

I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to their families and friends. (3/8)
We now have 74 confirmed cases in continuing care, including 65 at McKenzie Towne & 2 at Manoir du Lac in the North Zone.

There are 9 outbreaks at continuing care facilities, I want to emphasize some of these outbreaks are a precaution based on staff positive testing. (4/8)
Safety in these facilities is a serious issue. Residents & families are concerned & I hear them. We are doing everything possible to protect them. I’ve ordered only essential visitors visit, enhanced cleaning & screening measures & updated standards for operators & staff. (5/8)
We need to do more. Today I am issuing new standards that operators and staff must follow. They will be required to notify public health as soon as a case is suspected or confirmed or if 2 or more residents show symptoms. (6/8)
Staff must also inform supervisors if they’ve worked at a facility where there’s been a confirmed or suspected case. And facilities have new directions on how they must operate if there’s an outbreak. (7/8)
Know that we are all doing what we can to protect residents and limit the risk of spreading the virus to these most vulnerable members of society.

But we must all do our part. Stay home if you’re sick. Wash your hands. Help break the chain. (8/8)
You can follow @CMOH_Alberta.
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