We have encountered a technical issue in the reporting system, so we will be unable to provide detailed #COVID19AB case numbers today. This has not impacted our ability to identify & follow up on new cases, only our daily dashboard. (1/14)
As part of our usual quality assurance process, the team discovered some internal discrepancies that needed to be addressed so I could feel comfortable we were presenting data as accurately as possible. Tomorrow, we will provide a detailed update for both days. (2/14)
I can tell you that about 800 new cases were identified in the last 24 hours. (3/14)
9 hospitals have outbreaks, including 1 declared yesterday at Chinook Regional Hospital. AHS is working hard to manage outbreaks & protect staff & patients. Hospitals are still safe. If you need urgent care, do not hesitate to seek it. (4/14)
The number of new cases I’m reporting today is extremely concerning. It means measures we introduced 10 days ago are not having enough of an effect. It means in 7-10 days our hospital numbers will rise further & Albertans’ care w/issues besides COVID will be impacted. (5/14)
There are a high # of active cases where symptomatic people attended work/social events. In #YEG 9% of active cases worked w/symptoms, 8% visited retail/services & 8% attended social gatherings. In #YYC 11% worked w/symptoms, 9% travelled & 7% attended social gatherings. (6/14)
With 2,500+ active cases in each city as of yesterday, at least 500 people didn’t stay home. I am calling on Albertans to stop all activities if you have any symptoms. Leaving your home other than to get tested or seek care puts others at risk & spreads the virus. (7/14)
Many have asked why we’re focusing on social gatherings. They’re the number 1 driver of new cases. About 40% of #YEG & #YYC cases were exposed in their households or at gatherings. If we could reduce cases in this area, we would be quickly able to bend the curve back down. (8/14)
As cases have risen rapidly, we are experiencing challenges in contact tracing. Effective today, as an interim measure until more contact tracers can be hired & trained, AHS will focus contact tracing on high priority settings. (9/14)
AHS will still call every confirmed case to identify whether they have a link to a high priority setting like a continuing care facility, health care setting or school. If not, they will be provided with info to notify their contacts of the need to isolate & get tested. (10/14)
For group events like a wedding, party, or group fitness class, the event organizer will be contacted to ensure attendees are notified. I ask anyone who is notified that they are a close contact, whether by AHS or directly by someone you know, please be compassionate. (11/14)
Our health system cannot care for the increasing volume of COVID cases without stopping other services, which is happening now. Unless our numbers decline dramatically in the next few days, we will have to consider additional steps in order to protect our health system. (12/14)
We need to protect those most at risk for severe outcomes. I’ve recommended #YEG & #YYC continuing care operators consider limiting visitors to essential designated family/support (others in extenuating circumstances) & all operators ensure all precautions are in place. (13/14)
We are looking closely at what steps we need to recommend to government to protect the health of Albertans. But we need your help as well. Please be wise, be vigilant and keep your social gatherings as safe as possible. (14/14)
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