Average age of COVID-19 infected is lowering

EDMONTON (660 NEWS) — As the numbers of those infected with COVID-19 lower, the age of those who are contracting the virus is also decreasing.

In Thursday’s provincial update, chief medical officer of health Dr. Deena Hinshaw said because there is a lower risk to younger people, it doesn’t mean they are immune.

“In fact, the majority of active cases we’ve identified in recent weeks are in Albertans under the age of 40. At this time the average age of COVID-19 infections in Alberta is 39,” Hinshaw said.

She added that four Edmontonians under the age of 30 are currently in hospital.

In total, the province saw 26 new COVID-19 cases and one additional death on Thursday.

This brings the overall number of active cases in Alberta to 506, with 207 in the Calgary zone and 237 in the Edmonton zone, and 154 deaths.

With the Canada Day holiday approaching, Hinshaw said we should practice the health guidelines put in place to keep ourselves and those close to us safe.

“I want to remind all of us that COVID-19 is still very much a threat to Albertans, young and old. I know many people are tired of following health measures and physical distancing, particularly as the risk of severe outcomes is lower for those under 60 years of age, however, a lower risk does not mean there is no risk at all,” she added.

Hinshaw said people may be afraid to get a test when they have symptoms and the stigma they could face if it comes back positive.

She says we will only be successful in keeping the spread of the virus manageable if we’re able to use evidence-based interventions such as contact tracing and self-isolation of close contacts.

Hinshaw also reminded Albertans that getting a test is only a snapshot and can’t determine if someone was exposed beforehand and the virus does not discriminate.

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