Dr. Hinshaw adjusts daily update to show stats geared towards relaunch

During the May 6th Update, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw Officer announced that an inmate at the Calgary Remand Centre tested positive for COVID-19. The case was from someone who was newly admitted to the facility and was exposed the virus before they arrived.

“Generally, and where possible correctional facilities are quarantining new admissions for 14 days upon entry,” explained Dr. Hinshaw.

The case was handled appropriately and AHS is assisting the correctional facility with safety measures at this time.

As we prepare for relaunch, Dr. Deena Hinshaw said she is shifting how she presents daily case information.

“This is intended to help Albertans have the best understanding of the numbers we are watching as we consider the timing of stage one of relaunch,” said Dr. Hinshaw.

Dr. Hinshaw noted that one key measure for the relaunch is the rates of hospitalization and intensive care unit admissions. Additionally, the doctor has shifted from announcing the total number of cases to the number of active cases within the province.

The doctor outlined outdoor activities permissible during this time with restrictions such as golf courses and driving ranges, and outdoor gun ranges. Provincial campgrounds will be opening as soon as June 1st under restriction.

Water testing in Alberta’s bodies of water will be delayed as lab capacity increases to test people for COVID-19.

“In the meantime, Albertans should use lakes and beaches at their own risk and take precautions as they chose to enter water bodies. This includes checking for signs of blue-green algae blooms and following advice that may be posted at each site,” said the doctor.

The doctor closed the update by wishing all mothers and mother figures a happy mother’s day this weekend.