In Alberta over the last four days, Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, an average of 567 cases of COVID-19 were reported each day, from over 50,000 tests total.  The total of new cases was 2,268. The positivity rate in testing rose to 6.8% Nov. 2. 

Alberta now has 6,110 active cases of the virus. Since Friday, 1,315 Albertans have recovered, for a total of 23,484 recoveries.  

Right now, 167 people are hospitalized in the province with 27 people in intensive care. This an increase of 27 people hospitalized since the last reported numbers, which Dr. Hinshaw says is a sharp, concerning increase.  

“As you know, many non-urgent surgeries have been postponed in Edmonton Zone. We are working with AHS to closely monitor the health system’s capacity closely and, if needed, to consider steps to ensure the health system is able to support Albertans.” 

Since Friday, 15 COVID-19-related deaths were reported, for a total of 338. Dr. Hinshaw says this is a heartbreaking number that underscores the seriousness of the pandemic. She reminds Albertans that each death represents a person loved by family and friends and who is mourned.  

In Grande Prairie, 39 cases of the virus were found over the weekend, and 25 people recovered. Active cases are over 100 again at 105, with 199 recoveries. There were outbreaks identified at the Grande Prairie Care Centre and the Prairie Lakes Senior Facility. There are five active cases at the Grande Prairie Care Centre, all active, and the outbreak was identified on Oct. 25. There are three cases connected to Prairie Lakes Senior Facility, all recovered. 

Grande Prairie also has their second school to have an outbreak, St. Joseph Catholic High School, which is listed as having 2-4 cases. Riverstone Public School is also still listed in the same category. They had two cases confirmed in the same household on Oct. 26.

In the County, 13 new cases were found, and eight people recovered. There are now 26 active and 80 recoveries. 

New cases were found in several other Peace Region municipalities, as well as a few recoveries. 

Peace Region totals: 

Dr. Hinshaw reminds Albertans that the cases seen in our schools, hospitals and care facilities are a reflection of transmission in the community, and we’ll need to work together to reduce transmission. To reverse the trends, which she says is still possible, we need to think carefully about our options and do what we can to prevent the spread. 

This includes avoiding close proximity with people outside your household, wearing a mask if you can’t keep distance, considering postponing social gatherings, move them outside if possible and keep them small, and stay home and get tested if you’re sick. 

Watch the full update here: