Alberta is reporting 297 new COVID-19 cases in the province, bringing the total to 4017. Recoveries are at 1397. 

Of the new cases, three are in a First Nations community in the Calgary zone. 

There have been two cases identified in workers at Mountain View Poultry in Okotoks. An investigation is underway, and AHS working with plant to make sure they have the support they need.  

There are five new deaths being reported, bringing Alberta’s total to 72.  

Three of these were in long term care facilities, one was a JBS plant worker and the other a man in his 90s in the Calgary Zone.  

Dr. Hinshaw addressed the disappointment and anger many Albertans are feeling at yesterday’s announcement of the cancellation of summer events.  

She recognized that Alberta’s curve modeling lef the impression that the virus will go away over the summer, but this is not the case. On the contrary, COVID-19 will be with us for many months to come. 

Dr. Hinshaw illustrated the issue of mass gatherings. In the province, events have happened where over 80% of attendees were infected, even though they were trying to adhere to cleaning and social distancing protocols. The person who spread the virus was not aware they had it, because people can be contagious before showing symptoms.  

Our numbers are low because of the hard work Albertans have done to follow the public health mandates. To allow social gatherings now would be dangerous. The results could be “explosive, far-reaching, and deadly.” 

Dr. Hinshaw expressed her understanding of the difficulty caused to everyone with this decision, and does not take it lightly.  

She reminded Albertans of their commitment to keep protecting each other and giving our support and compassion to others as we continue the fight.  

Watch the full update here: