In today’s COVID-19 update, Dr. Hinshaw reported 8048 recoveries from the virus and 86 new from almost 6000 tests in the last 24 hours. 

There have been two new cases identified in the County of Grande Prairie, for a total of five active. The City has one new, with four active now. 

The MD of Spirit River has seen its first case. Clear Hills County has three new cases, for seven active and nine recovered.  

Mackenzie County has two new cases and one recovery. They have 15 active, 43 recoveries and one death, which was reported yesterday (July 13). The County is one of four regions on the province’s watch list, with more than 50 cases per 100,000 people. No additional measures are being taken at this time. 

Currently, 55 people are in the hospital with 13 in intensive care. 

There have been two new deaths, with one of these connected to the Misericordia Community Hospital outbreak in Edmonton. The outbreak has a total of 49 cases, 17 active cases each in patients and staff. Six people have died. Multiple measures are in place to prevent spread and an evaluation is underway to learn how the outbreak happened.

Dr. Hinshaw says that she is worried that Albertans are beginning to tune out the messages about taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. There has been a recent rise in cases, which is a cause for concern. She recognizes that it may seem like old news and many are tired of hearing COVID information, but the virus can still spread quickly and cases rise if we are not careful. 

Dr. Hinshaw is also concerned with the large number of younger people who have been infected recently. Out of 780 cases identified in the last two weeks, 57% were in people under the age of 40. Thirty per cent of these have not been linked to a known source. 

Her advice has not changed: wash your hands frequently, keep two metres of distance, wear a mask when you can’t, and stay home when you are sick and get tested.  

Respecting cohort limits is also essential. A maximum of 15 outside the household of friends and family, and 50 for sports teams. Sports teams should not be competing in tournaments with other cohorts. 

"If anyone is tired of following the public health guidance, or feels that they are not at risk, please remember that your actions are protecting more than yourself. Anyone can become ill from this virus, but older Albertans and those with heart disease, diabetes or other underlying medical conditions are the highest risk of experiencing severe health outcomes."

We act as a shield to protect our friends, families, neighbours. 

Watch the full update here: