On Oct. 27, the County of Grande Prairie was placed on watch status by Alberta Health. For the first time, they passed more than 50 active cases per 100,000 people, with 19 active cases. 

Reeve Leanne Beaupre released a statement about the change. 

She says, “The Province has indicated that they won’t immediately be putting additional measures in place, instead watching local case numbers closely. While there is no mandatory mask or face covering bylaw in place in the County of Grande Prairie, we encourage everyone to review the City of Grande Prairie’s Mask Bylaw and follow any regulations that are put in place in our neighbouring municipalities. 

“We will continue to follow the Province’s lead, including Alberta Health Services (AHS) guidelines to help slow and prevent the spread of COVID-19.” 

The Reeve reminds residents to do what they can to prevent the spread, including staying home when sick, regular hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, social distancing and wearing a mask when social distancing isn’t possible, as recommended by the province. 

This also includes monitoring for symptoms and getting tested when we required. She says testing is available for people with symptoms, close contacts of a confirmed case or linked to an outbreak. The Reeve says this testing is essential to keep our communities safe. 

“The past few months have been very stressful for many, and there is still uncertainty of what is yet to come. We can take pride in how we have managed to minimize the spread of COVID-19 so far, and that is due to the concerted effort of everyone in our community.  

“By coming together in cooperation and respect, we hope to see our numbers decrease for the wellbeing of our community.”