Today Alberta is reporting 146 new cases of COVID-19 from 13,003 tests completed Sept. 16.  

There are now 1,483 active cases in the provinces, and there's been 194 new recoveries for a total of 14,573.  

Hospitalizations are up by three from yesterday’s reported numbers at 41, with eight of these in intensive care. There’s been no new deaths, for a total of 254. 

In her update Dr. Hinshaw reminded Albertans that every number in our COVID-19 stats is a person, and these people need support and compassion. 

In Grande Prairie, there was one new case found and one recovery. The County also had one recovery. There are now 13 active cases in both places combined.  

Clear Hills County had six recoveries from the virus reported today. The County of Northern Lights had two new cases and five recoveries. Mackenzie County had one new cases and seven people recovery. The MD of Peace had one new. 

Area totals: 

In her update, Dr. Hinshaw announced some changes being implemented in COVID-19 testing in Alberta. She says that as we approach winter and flu season, which has similar symptoms to COVID-19, the province has to prepare with a surge in testing. 

Out of more than 233,000 asymptomatic tests, there were about seven positive cases for every 10,000 tests. Dr. Hinshaw says these cases are not driving the daily cases numbers we’ve been seeing. The asymptomatic testing helped Alberta Health to see the spread of the virus through the province. It also stress-tested the testing system. With winter coming, they’ll be slowing asymptomatic testing down. 

Alberta is shifting to a targeted approach, testing those who are symptomatic, and asymptomatic where there are more likely to be positive cases. Anyone with symptoms, who is a close contact or linked to an outbreak will continue to be prioritized for testing. 

Asymptomatic people with no known exposure will still be able to get tested if they are in settings where they are more likely to spread to vulnerable or at-risk populations. This includes staff and residents in congregate care settings, schoolteachers and staff, health care workers and Albertans experiencing homelessness.  

Asymptomatic testing is no longer recommended for Albertans with no known exposure or symptoms. Anyone without symptoms that has already booked their test can still get tested. Those travelling internationally and are required to have a negative test before leaving can also still be tested. 

The new targeted approach to testing is intended to help tests get scheduled as quickly as possible and get results faster. 

Watch the full update here: