Here is a summary thread of today’s #COVID19AB public health update. Over the last 24 hours we have confirmed 218 new cases, bringing Alberta’s total to 5,573. Of these, 2,359 have recovered. (1/8)
We have confirmed 3 deaths which brings the total number of lives lost to 92. All 3 were in continuing care facilities experiencing outbreaks. My thoughts are with those grieving the loss of a loved one today. We should not let these numbers become just another statistic. (2/8)
There are 598 cases in continuing care facilities, 921 cases at Cargill in High River & 390 cases at JBS in Brooks. AHS has identified an outbreak with 5 cases at the Amazon facility in Balzac. A rapid response team is supporting Alpha House in Calgary with 2 cases. (3/8)
I want to thank those responding to outbreaks. They are providing public health guidance, testing anyone who may have been exposed and supporting those who have become ill. Their casework and contact tracing is the backbone of our ability to prevent spread of the virus. (4/8)
Today we are launching AB TraceTogether, a voluntary, secure, mobile tracing app to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The app is now available to all Albertans in the Google and Apple App Stores. You only need to download and provide your cell phone number to register. (5/8)
AB TraceTogether uses Bluetooth to log encrypted “digital handshakes”- when 2 phones with the app get within 2m of one another for 15 mins. over 24 hrs. If someone with the app tests positive, AHS will ask to use this info to contact users who may have been exposed. (6/8)
Identities are not shared. Users will only be informed they’ve come into close contact with someone who has tested positive. The only information exchanged is a random ID – nothing identifiable. Data is stored on your phone in an encrypted form for 21 days & then deleted. (7/8)
Previously AHS had no way to know a patient’s encounter if they couldn't recall them or came into contact with persons unknown to them. Now they will. The app doesn’t use GPS or track a user’s location/contacts. I have downloaded the app and I encourage you to as well. (8/8)
