Thread by @CMOH_Alberta

Here is a summary of today’s #COVID19AB update. Over the last 24 hrs, we have identified 1,227 new cases of COVID-19 in AB, and completed about 16,284 new tests. This means that our prov positivity rate currently sits at about 7.6 per cent. We now have 14,217 active cases. (1/9)

There are 405 people in hospital, w/86 in ICU. Sadly, 9 deaths were reported to us in the past 24hrs. I think often about the tragic impact that this virus has had on many Albertans. This is a hard time for all of us & we need to continue to support one another. (2/9)

There are active alerts/outbreaks in 356 schools - about 15% of all schools, w/ a total of 1,326 active cases. This incl 193 schools w/ outbreaks, w/89 on watch. Starting Mon, Grade 7-12 students will shift to at-home, returning to in-person classes Jan. 11. (3/9)

I would also like to remind Albertans in enhanced status areas that many of the restrictions for businesses and services announced on Tuesday are coming into effect today. Order 39-2020 will be posted later today. (4/9)

Restriction of group perf. activities, incl singing, dancing & theatre remain in effect for enhanced areas. It does not apply to professional venues, school classroom or 1-on-1 settings. Singing or piano lessons can still occur with precautions in place. (5/9)

Mutual support groups like AA, NA or SMART may continue in person as long as physical distancing of 2m is maintained. I encourage virtual sessions where possible. This is to reduce in-person interactions, but also support those who may not be able to attend in-person. (6/9)

Exercise patience & kindness in the days ahead. If a line is longer or you are asked to follow a new policy, do not take frustrations out on workers. Employees & operators, show patience for customers who may not know new measures, or need help understanding what to do. (7/9)

I want to be clear: for the next few weeks, every single one of us needs to drastically reduce the amount of contact we have with people outside of our household. I am asking every Albertan to embrace this challenge. (8/9)

This weekend, do everything you can possibly think of to help bend the curve. The decisions that each of us make will help determine whether cases fall, or rise, in the weeks ahead. So please be wise, be safe, and let’s all look out for each other. (9/9)