Kenney gives update on COVID-19 cases around Thanksgiving, new rules for long-term care facilities

The province has provided the latest COVID-19 update.

Premier Jason Kenney began Tuesday's (Oct.19) update by congratulating everyone elected in last night's municipal elections. He touched on Alberta's senate election and the referendum on equalization payments, however, he opted to wait for official results before commenting further.

Kenney thanked Albertans for doing their part in helping to bring down the fourth wave, with special mention to healthcare workers. He said Alberta Health Services was able to add up to 203 ICU spaces across the province, which more than doubled the available ICU spaces.

He also spoke about last week's Thanksgiving holiday.

"So far, we have not seen evidence of a spike in cases," said Kenney, adding they will need to keep an eye on cases after gatherings during last year's Thanksgiving sparked Alberta's second wave.

The province announced new rules for continuing care facilities on Tuesday. Chief medical officer of health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, explained that effective Monday (Oct.25), masking will be required for all visitors, regardless of vaccine status.

"We continue to balance the need to protect residents and staff from COVID-19 with ensuring that these residents enjoy a meaningful quality of life. We will continue watching closely and adopt these measures as needed in the months ahead," said Hinshaw.

In addition, all long-term care and supportive living residents will be required to quarantine after being admitted to a facility or returning from the hospital until they test negative for COVID-19.