49 new cases, 3 recovered from COVID-19 in Alberta
Posted Mar 20, 2020 04:06:45 PM.
Last Updated Mar 20, 2020 04:54:32 PM.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) — Alberta’s top doctor, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, announced there are 49 new cases of COVID-19 in Alberta, moving the total number of cases to 195 in Alberta.
Ten people are now in hospital fighting the disease, five of which are in the ICU.
Out of all the cases, 11 are believed to be community transmitted.
Hinshaw asked about the 5 ICU cases…
– One previous case in their 40s, on in their 60s
– New cases are in 60s, one in 70s
– does not know the age of the fifth patient— Courtney Theriault (@cspotweet) March 20, 2020
Though there was a spike in numbers Friday, many of the cases continue to be travel-related, while about 6 per cent are believed to be from community spread.
Dr. Hinshaw bringing positivity to the numbers, adding that three people have been confirmed to have recovered from the virus.
Earlier in the afternoon, Premier Jason Kenney announced that over 17,000 test have been done Albertans, which is the highest per-capita rate in North America, and the third-highest in the world.
Meanwhile, some changes coming for those who have loved ones in senior facilities.
Tough stances for seniors facilities.
Only one visitor designated by resident may visit.
Facilities will conduct screenings on “essential visitors” accepting for those that are at end of life.
Says it's more important than ever to use the telephone.
— Courtney Theriault (@cspotweet) March 20, 2020
Dr. Hinshaw added that the U.S. has been the biggest source of Alberta’s infections and closing the border is the biggest key in stopping imported cases.
Finally, Dr. Hinshaw said she will be taking some time for herself this upcoming weekend to practice what she has preached and get some rest.