In the latest B.C. COVID-19 update, 165 new cases were announced, with 1705 active.  

In addition, 2,949 people are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases, and 5,719 people have recovered. Currently, 57 people are hospitalized, with 22 of them in intensive care. One new death was reported, for a total of 220.  

There were four new cases in the Northern Health region from 230 tests, and 33 are active. Currently, seven people are hospitalized with six in intensive care. There’s been 207 total recoveries and one death, which was reported last week.  

In the last couple of weeks, Sept. 4 to 17, 39 cases of the virus were found in Northeast B.C., with 116 found since day one of the pandemic. 

In their Sept. 17 update, Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, reminded British Columbians of the importance of limiting their exposure and getting tested if sick.  

They also announced a new made-in-B.C. sample collection program for all K-12 students, which is one of the first of its kind worldwide. 

“For school-aged children four to 19, a mouth-rinse gargle is now available at COVID-19 collection centres around the province. Unlike the nasopharyngeal swab method, this new saline method doesn’t require a health-care professional to collect the sample.  

“Taking the step to get tested is how you protect your friends and loved ones, and for K-12 students there is now an easier alternative.” 

They also remind residents of the limit of 50 on gatherings, and the importance of keeping groups as small as possible. Sometimes 50 will be too much depending on the size of space. They say smaller is always safer. 

“The compromise to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe also includes seeing fewer friends and family members, for now.” 

This means making small groups the same small groups, avoiding spending time with different friends on different days. They want residents to make a “safe six”. 

“The restrictions and precautions are not forever, but they are needed right now. By stepping back now, we can protect those who are most vulnerable and keep the people we care about safe.” 

Watch the full update here: