Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.'s provincial health officer, issued a joint statement on COVID-19 in B.C. July 20. 

They reported 102 new cases from July 17 to 20.  There are 353 active cases and 2,858 recoveries. Sixteen people are in the hospital with four in intensive care. There were no new deaths and the total stays at 189. 

One new cases was identified in the Northern Health region for four active and 65 recovered.  

On July 20, B.C. released a preliminary report of the ‘Your story, our future’ survey, and the latest data on COVID-19 in the Province. 

“The preliminary survey results show that almost half of British Columbians (47%) have experienced worsening mental health as a result of the pandemic. Many have also faced additional economic burden and the stress that comes with that. 

“Notably, those aged 18 to 29 have experienced greater economic and mental health impact than the general population.” 

They remind British Columbians to reach out to those they know who may be more vulnerable.  

“The epidemiological data also shows some concerning upward trends: The infection rate for new cases is increasing above one to one, and we are also seeing an uptick in our case curve. This tells us that we are on edge of increasing our social interactions too much and are at risk of a rebound. 

“We need to bend our curve back down to where it belongs.” 

To help push the curve down again, they recommend keeping groups small and seeing only people they know. For those going out, be kind to servers who are higher risk and following guidelines for restaurants and bars.

“If you are hosting a small gathering, remember ‘fewer faces and bigger spaces.’ Keep your gatherings small, know everyone who is coming, stay outside as much as possible and have a designated ‘contact keeper’ so you are able to quickly alert everyone afterward, if necessary.”