Alberta has seen another increase in the number of cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours.

The Province's Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Marcia Johnson, says we've gone over 200 cases province wide.

"Since yesterday in Alberta we've had 31 new cases of COVID-19. This means that 226 cases have now been identified in our province. We suspect that up to 16 of these cases may be due to community transmission. 11 individuals are now hospitalized and six are receiving care in ICU, which is up one from yesterday (Friday, March 20). There have been no additional deaths."

This is the first time the daily number has actually gone down since they started reporting the daily totals, however Johnson says that doesn't mean the spread of the virus is slowing or social distancing is working.

"I must say it is too soon to make that conclusion on one days information. The whole aim of all the social distancing restrictions we've put in is to decrease the number of people getting ill. And to decrease the speed at which they're getting ill. So, if this is an indication, and I'm not saying it is because it's only one data point. If it is an indication that'd be great. That's what we're working for. It's too soon to make that conclusion at this point."

Johnson, says AHS and the Province are looking to take more steps to enforce isolations and social distancing.

"A plan is in place and will be starting to roll out over the next week that would allow public health inspectors to monitor large groups in restaurants and businesses. There's also power being provided to police, to deal with, through fines I believe, with people that might not be following the recommendations."

Once again Johnson is urging people to follow good hygiene practices, remain at home when they can, and practice social distancing.

 

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