During the October 20th Alberta COVID-19 update, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw began by encouraging Albertans to get influenza immunization.

“By reducing your likelihood of influenza you are reducing your likelihood of having to stay home and go for COVID-19 testing. You are also reducing the chance to spreading it to your loved ones causing them to have to stay and go for testing,” explained Hinshaw.

d are continually responding to public health guidelines to determine what additional steps may need to be taken,” said Veer in her statement.

Face coverings in public areas may be revisited by city council should Dr. Hinshaw suggest additional measures are required to slow the spread of the virus in Red Deer and the Central Zone.

Additionally, Doctor Hinshaw announced that the province will no longer be offering asymptomatic testing. Only those who are experiencing symptoms or are close contacts to known cases will be able to receive COVID-19 testing.

 “These are our top priorities and the people most likely to have COVID-19. However, AHS and community pharmacies will no longer be booking new appointments for any asymptomatic Albertans who have no known exposure,” said Hinshaw.

A few weeks ago, the doctor announced that asymptomatic testing will only be offered to those in high-risk occupations such as teachers or those caring for the most vulnerable. However, Dr. Hinshaw is confident the change will not impact transmission greatly.

“Only about one in 1000 people with no symptoms and no exposure has tested positive on average over the past seven months,” added Hinshaw.

 New case numbers as of October 20th, 2020:

  • 323 new cases have been identified
  • 3,203 active cases in Alberta
  • 116 people are hospitalized with COVID-19
  • 16 people are currently in ICUs
  • 19,500 total recovered cases
  • 293 total deaths from the virus 
  • 1 new death in the last 24 hours 1,653, 361 tests have been performed in total 

Active case numbers in Central Alberta area:

  • 10 active cases in Lacombe County
  • 9 active case in the City of Lacombe
  • 39 active cases in the City of Red Deer
  • 7 active cases in Red Deer County
  • 43 active cases in Ponoka County
  • 0 active cases in the Town of Sylvan Lake
  • 7 active cases in Stettler County
  • 6 active case in Mountain View County

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