Here is a summary thread of today’s #COVID19AB public health update. In the last 24 hours, we confirmed 49 new cases of COVID-19 in Alberta, bringing our total to 1,500. We suspect 201 cases may be a result of community transmission. (1/9)
713 people have recovered, 121 more than yesterday. We have completed 2,123 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours, not including the thousands of Albertans who have testing scheduled after completing the online assessment tool. It will take time to get through the volume. (2/9)
Sadly, I must report 7 more deaths related to COVID-19, the highest number in a single day. 4 deaths were at the McKenzie Towne Continuing Care Facility, bringing the total there to 17. To their family and friends and everyone who has lost loved ones, my deep condolences. (3/9)
Like many of you, I am concerned about the residents at these facilities. We are exploring all options to prevent deaths and keep people healthy. We are looking at other jurisdictions and using what we learn to take new steps to prevent the spread of illness. (4/9)
All workers in these sites must now wear masks at all times when providing direct patient care or working in patient care areas to minimize the risk of asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic health care workers exposing others to the virus. (5/9)
We are also requiring all workers in continuing care facilities to work at only one site to help prevent the spread of illness between facilities. These requirements will be in effect at ALL long-term care and supportive living sites across the province. (6/9)
We are working with facilities to transition to the new requirements, which will be implemented late next week. We encourage lodges with no supportive living designation & group home providers to assign staff to work at only one site. It is voluntary for these providers. (7/9)
I want to thank all Albertans for your efforts to find new ways to connect with loved ones in continuing care facilities – holding signs up to their windows or visiting virtually with a tablet. You’re making this difficult time a little better for our most vulnerable. (8/9)
I know you may also be fielding questions from young people in your lives. A new fact sheet at Alberta.ca/COVID19 for kids & families is available to help have conversations about #COVID19AB & the measures we are taking to prevent spread. Have a healthy & safe weekend. (9/9)
