Here is a summary of today’s #COVID19AB update: If you receive a text to consent to receiving an important msg from AHS contact tracers, it is not a scam. Pls accept. You will receive a msg w/info specific to you, exposures, & instructions to keep those around you safe. (1/10)

Over the last 24hrs, we ID’d 1,857 new cases & completed about 17.5K tests. Our + rate is 10.7%. We ID’d 1,326 new VoC cases in the last 24hrs. Variants represent about 60% of active cases. There are active alerts/outbreaks in 612 schools in AB w/3.5K cases since Jan. 11. (2/10)

We have confirmed the 1st AB case of the B.1.617 variant 1st ID’d in Denmark. It’s been found in California & a key driver of rapid spread in India. The variant was in a returning interprovincial traveller & no additional cases have been detected to date. (3/10)

As with all new variants research is underway to understand what may be different in how B.1.617 spreads & if it creates more serious illness. We are calling this a variant of interest as we monitor the latest findings on this variant as evidence emerges around the world. (4/10)

There are 518 in hospital incl 116 in ICU. Given how high growth rate, new cases & + rate have been, we can expect to see this # to grow in the coming days & weeks. We must bend this curve down to prevent severe outcomes & subsequent impact on our health care system. (5/10)

Sadly, I must announce that 6 new deaths were reported in the last 48 hours. Every death involved someone who loved & was loved by many. My thoughts are with everyone who is mourning the loss of a loved one from any cause. (6/10)

On Apr. 23, ABs w/solid organ/stem cell transplants or immune compromising treatments such as chemo/anti-CD20 monoclonal can book 2nd dose 21-28 days after 1st. Research indicates these ppl do not respond as effectively to 1 dose. Appts can be booked by calling 811. (7/10)

All other ABs will continue to be eligible no later than 4 months after 1st dose. Bookings for 2nd doses will begin after all ABs 16+ have been offered a 1st dose, likely late June. When more doses arrive this summer, we will look at shortening interval based on supply. (8/10)

I urge anyone eligible in Phase 1, 2A, 2B or current 2C, who hasn’t yet received their 1st dose, to book their appt today via AHS online/811 or a participating pharmacy. Some pharmacies & AHS clinics are also accepting walk-ins for the AstraZeneca vaccine for ABs 40+. (9/10)

After a year of being asked to distance, stay home when sick, wash our hands & wear a mask, we have another tool at our disposal – vaccines. However, its effectiveness relies on how many of us choose to use it. Pls make the safe choice to get your shot. (10/10)