Over the long weekend, Alberta reported 303 cases of COVID-19 from more than 34,000 tests. There were 97 on July 31, 67 on Aug. 1, 74 on Aug. 2, and 65 on Aug. 3. There are now 1,191 active cases and 9,754 recoveries.

Grande Prairie saw five new cases and three people recover, and now has 10 active and 28 recoveries. The County of Grande Prairie has two new cases for four active and 19 recoveries. 

In the surrounding region: 

  • Clear Hills County: Four recovered. Totals: zero active and 24 recoveries. 
  • Mackenzie County: 19 new and 20 recovered. Totals: 57 active, 109 recoveries, one death.  
  • MD of Fairview: One recovered. Totals: zero active and two recoveries.  
  • MD of Greenview: Two recovered. Totals: three active and five recoveries.  

In her update, Dr. Hinshaw says that our most recent daily cases have declined slightly, which she credits to Albertans rising to the challenge of lowering our numbers. Two weeks ago, Dr. Hinshaw called our numbers a “wake-up call.” The number of active cases has decrease by over 200 cases since last week and nine regions have been taken off the watch list. She says we still have a long way to go, but these are encouraging signs.  

Dr. Hinshaw addressed today why school is resuming now when we cancelled in spring with less cases. She says that back in March, we didn’t know much about the virus or how it spreads. Closing schools was also part of broader restrictions to keep from overwhelming the health care system. 

Since then, we have learned a lot about the virus. While younger children can contract and spread the virus, it’s been shown to be less than adults. Around the world, schools do not seem to be a major driver of community spread. 

Dr. Hinshaw also notes the virus has been with us for five months and will be for many months to come. Closing schools has a significant impact on the emotional, physical and mental health of students, especially those most vulnerable. This new plan seeks to balance all the health needs of Alberta's children.  

Watch the full update here: