Dr Deena Hinshaw provided her third report for the week. She spoke to COVID 19 cases identified in Hutterite Colonies in the province and reiterated that the virus affects all communities. 

As to the numbers reported they are as follows:

  • over 8200 tests were performed in the past 24 hours
  • 120 new cases were revealed (which is the first time since May 2 the province has seen over 100 cases in a single day)
  • there are 807 active cases in the province
  • 69 people are in hospital with 8 in ICU
  • 8142 people have recovered
  • Cochrane has seen a total of 11 cases with 2 active and 9 recovered

Dr Hinshaw says, "I absolutely am concerned about our recent numbers and the increase in new cases we have had. I am particularly concerned about the number of cases we don't know the source. It's really important for all of us to remember even though we have eased some of the restrictions we've had in place, COVID 19 is not over."

Dr Hinshaw spoke to the severe impact that the isolation of COVID 19 has had on the residents in continuing care facilities. She announced that as of August 23, the visitation access will be changed at continuing care facilities from "restricted access" to "safe access". Click here for information on what that will be mean for visitors. 

Alberta's top doctor also announced that some other small restrictions will be lifted. Starting tomorrow, the province will be permitting indoor exhibits and trade shows, outdoor vocal concerts, and wind instrument performances. Outdoor hot tubs and whirlpools will be allowed  to open. All activities must adhere to public health guidelines.