Alberta Health has confirmed another 64 cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours in the province.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw says that brings the total to 754 cases including another death at the MacKenzie Towne Long Term Care.

She called it "Another example of COVID-19 at its worst".

AHS is tracking outbreaks at three seniors facilities including MacKenzie Towne and Carewest Glenmore Centre in Calgary.

Dr. Hinshaw says it's especially troubling because seniors and those with chronic health conditions are at greatest risk.

"These outbreaks remains worrisome. We know seniors and those with chronic health conditions are greatest risk of severe illness related to COVID-19," she says. "We must all do our part and follow the public health orders that are in place to save lives."

She realizes the hardships of isolation, but says with religious holidays coming up it's important to come up with innovative ways to get together.

"This is true for families and friends who are planning to celebrate upcoming religious holidays like Easter, Passover and Ramadan," Dr. Hinshaw says. "Albertans should be planning to celebrate virtually, not having large gatherings and even avoiding small gatherings outside of their immediate household."

She pointed to some of the ideas she's been hearing like the central Alberta church holding services at a drive-in so people can stay in their cars and worship or holding services online.

Dr Hinshaw reiterated the importance of following the rules that have been put in place to keep everyone healthy.

 

Send us your news tips, story ideas and comments at news@highriveronline.com