During the COVID 19 update on Tuesday, Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health announced that Calgary Health Trust is donating 1.7 million dollars to increase testing in Alberta. This investment will significantly increase testing in Alberta which already has the highest rate in Canada and one of the highest in the world. This investment will increase COVID-19 testing up to 16,000 tests per day, more than doubling Alberta’s maximum capacity for testing. The increase in testing will be instrumental in the Re-launch Strategy put forth by the government.

Dr Hinshaw reported. 57 new cases in Alberta, bringing the total to 5893. Two additional deaths were reported bringing that total to 106 and 3219 have recovered.

There are now 622 confirmed cases in continuing care facilities in the province and Dr Hinshaw that those facilities remain a top priority for AHS.

Dr Hinshaw also spoke to the fact that this is Mental Health Week and that Albertan's mental health is more important than ever during these unprecedented times.  She says, "This pandemic and the measures that we have had to take to contain it, have affected us all. It is normal to feel anxious, scared, lonely, uncertain or depressed. While we continue to work together to prevent the spread of COVID 19 must also work together to support good mental health." 

Dr Deena says that looking after our own and each others mental health must be part of our new normal as much as regular hand washing. She says it is important to have a strong support system and if you don't, the Mental Health Help Line run by  Alberta Health Services is available at 1-877 303 2642. 

Further information and support can be found by clicking here.