In today’s daily COVID-19 update from the province, Premier Jason Kenney shared new modeling for the virus in Alberta.  

The government announced in a release, “The Government of Alberta has introduced a new “low” modelling scenario estimating 298 Albertans will require hospitalization and 95 will require critical care when the virus reaches its peak. If current trends continue, this scenario will become the most likely scenario for Alberta. 

“Updated modelling scenarios continue to estimate that Alberta’s outbreak will reach its peak in late May. However, the number of Albertans hospitalized at the peak of the virus is predicted to be lower than originally estimated. This reflects Alberta’s experience over the past few weeks and the proportion of cases actually entering hospital and intensive care units.” 

Kenney commented, “The data show us that our efforts to lower the peak of the virus are working, but we must remain vigilant. We continue to refine our modelling in order to ensure our health-care system is prepared. While we are still a ways off from returning to our normal way of life, our government is working around the clock on a phased approach to relaunch our economy safely. It is essential Albertans continue to exercise common sense and follow public health guidance so we can get the economy moving again as quickly as possible." 

Our probable scenario now estimates 596 people in Alberta will require hospitalization, with 190 requiring critical care on the days when the virus reaches its peak.  

Premier Kenney also shared that Alberta’s relaunch plan will be announced later this week.  

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Health, reported 154 new cases today, bringing our total to 4850.  

There have been 5 new deaths for a new total of 80. Two of these were in continuing care centres, one in the Calgary Zone, and one in the South Zone. There have been 52 deaths in care centres.  

Dr. Hinshaw encourages Albertans to look at the new modeling as good news, and celebrate by holding on a bit longer. 

Watch the full update here: