Thread by @CMOH_Alberta

Here is a summary of today’s #COVID19AB update. Over the last 24 hrs, we have identified 1,685 additional cases & completed more than 18,000 tests. Our prov positivity rate sits at about 9.2%, & we have 17,144 active cases. There are 504 people in hospital, incl 97 in ICU. (1/9)

There were 10 deaths related to COVID-19 reported to us in the past 24 hours. My sympathies are with the loved ones of these individuals and those who have passed away from any other cause. (2/9)

In schools, there are currently active alerts or outbreaks in 397 schools, about 17% of schools in AB with a combined total of 1,537 active cases. There are 210 schools with outbreaks, incl 96 on the watch list. (3/9)

As Premier announced, AB is preparing to distribute vaccines, once they are approved by Health Canada & arrive in AB. 1st phase distribution will focus on immunizing priority groups - ppl at the highest risk of severe outcomes from COVID/have critical roles in healthcare. (4/9)

We know that LTC residents & those that care for them have shouldered a heavy burden through the pandemic. To date, we’ve had 3,100+ cases in residents at long-term care & supportive living sites. Sadly, 64% of reported deaths have been from these Albertans. (5/9)

Healthcare workers exposed to/contract COVID-19 are off work until they are well or their isolation period ends. By immunizing these groups 1st, we will reduce demand on our acute care system, safeguard our workforce of critical healthcare workers & help prevent outbreaks. (6/9)

I know the prospect of a vaccine is promising – and provides a sense of relief and hope to many, including me. While we plan for this, we can’t lose sight of rising case numbers & increased hospitalizations. (7/9)

The 1st 2 vaccines we anticipate receiving need 2 doses to be effective, w/ the 2nd dose 3-4 wks after the 1st. This means that full protection even for those who are in the top priority group will take time to achieve. (8/9)

We must continue to work together to keep our numbers down until enough ABs have received their full series of vaccine to keep COVID under control. Actions each of us take right now are vital in slowing spread & bending down the curve. (9/9)