Dr. Hinshaw provided a COVID-19 updated today, Sept. 4, as we head into the long weekend.  

Alberta has 164 new cases today from 19,709 tests completed in the last 24 hours. The province has passed a testing milestone today of one million tests; 1,005,001 tests have been completed to date. 

Grande Prairie had two recoveries from the virus today, while there was no change in the County. Clear Hills County had three new cases and three recoveries. Mackenzie County reports seven new and eight people have recovered. Each of the MDs of Fairview, Peace and Spirit River had one new case. The MD of Fairview also had a recovery.  

Area totals: 

Recoveries in the province are at 12,799, with 146 of these being new. Active cases moved up today to 1,433. Currently, 47 people are in the hospital, up one from yesterday, with nine in intensive care. There were no new deaths reported today.  

Dr. Hinshaw recognized today that people are excited to enjoy the last long weekend of summer, but also noted our high numbers are a reminder that we cannot afford to be reckless.  

She reminds Albertans to have fun and relax this weekend while being vigilant and making safety a priority. 

As people travel and visit new places outdoors, she reminds everyone to watch for regulations like mandatory mask bylaws. Dr. Hinshaw encourages Albertans to wear masks when in close-quarters and sanitize their hands before and after when making stops. She says to be aware of high-touch surfaces like gas pumps and door handles. 

Dr. Hinshaw reminds everyone who is camping to watch for protection measures in place and follow guidelines. Alberta Parks says to wear a mask when around those not in your household.  

If you’re having a BBQ, Dr. Hinshaw says it’s best to keep these small, and get people to bring their own food and utensils.  

Currently, close contacts are the largest source of transmission in the province, ahead of outbreaks and unknown sources.  

Dr. Hinshaw provided a final reminder to stay home even if you feel a little bit sick, because the risk to loved ones is too high.   Watch the full update here: