On Oct. 22, B.C. reported 274 new cases of COVID-19 and 10,114 recoveries.  

Right now, 71 people are hospitalized with the virus, with 24 of these in intensive care. No new deaths were reported, and the total remains at 256. 

In the past 14 days, Oct. 9 to 22, there’s been 13 COVID-19 cases found in northeast B.C., with 150 found since the start of the pandemic. Ten of these cases were found in the last week, a bit higher than the previous week’s total of three. 

In the Northern Health region, which includes northeast B.C., four new cases were found on Oct. 22 and 13 are active. One person is hospitalized and in intensive care. There’s been 349 total recoveries.  

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, says that significant transmission of COVID-19 is at social gatherings.  

“Many of the new cases are linked to weddings, funerals and other important life occasions, and the impact is far reaching. 

“The new cases stemming from social gatherings are now spilling over and causing clusters and outbreaks in long-term care facilities, workplaces and schools right across our province. 

She reminds British Columbians to keep their gatherings small, keeping to the immediate household and safe six. 

“Now is the time to slow down, stay small and plan the party for next year; to show we care by keeping our friends and family off the invite list this fall and winter. Your choices make a difference. Let’s choose to protect our communities and the ones we care for most.” 

Watch the full update here: