Dr. Deena Hinshaw noted some schedule changes for COVID-19 updates through the holiday season. 

From December 24th to the 27th, there will be no detailed reports online. Preliminary data will still be posted on Dr. Deena Hinshaw’s Twitter page except for December 25th. 

The next live COVID-19 update will be on December 28th and data will be posted online. From December 31st to January 3rd preliminary data will again be posted to the Chief Medical Officer's Twitter page. 

As we head into the holidays, Dr. Hinshaw hopes Albertans plan to be vigilant about the restrictions during this time and keep COVID-19 in mind when planning events. 

“While we have provided an exemption to allow those who live alone to attend a single gathering during the next few days. Please only undertake this if absolutely necessary,” said Hinshaw.

As usual, she asks that all Albertans experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 remain at home and avoid gatherings. 

“Our choices during the upcoming statutory holiday season can help build our downward momentum or they can send our case numbers rising again,” said Hinshaw. 

Additionally, the doctor noted that the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has now been approved for use by Health Canada. She expects an update on the vaccine’s arrival in Alberta in the coming weeks. 

December 23rd new case numbers:

  • 1,301 new cases of the virus for December 22nd
  • 17,821 active cases in Alberta
  • 821 people are hospitalized 
  • 146 people have been admitted to ICUs 
  • 19 new deaths in the last 24 hours
  • 890 total deaths from the virus

Active case numbers in the Central Alberta area:

  • 41 active cases in Lacombe County
  • 24 active case in the City of Lacombe
  • 358 active cases in the City of Red Deer
  • 78 active cases in Red Deer County
  • 347 active cases in Ponoka County
  • 20 active cases in the Town of Sylvan Lake
  • 24 active cases in Stettler County
  • 33 active case in Mountain View County

*Not all cases in the Central Zone have been included.