As all is still quiet in northern B.C., the province as a whole continues to climb up the COVID-19 case ladder.
Today (July 13), Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix reported 62 new test-positive cases in the last 72 hours since the government's last update (July 10), increasing the total to 3,115.
Northern Health has now gone 34 consecutive days without a new case as it's total remains at 65.
According to a release, there are currently 208 active cases in the province, 14 of which are in hospital with five people in intensive care.
The death toll, unfortunately, has also gone up to 189 after two more people died from COVID-19 on the weekend, none of whom were from Northern Health's jurisdiction.
To date, there are have been 2,718 recoveries, encompassing 87 per cent of the overall number since the virus hit B.C.
"Now is the time to pay attention to how we are feeling and what we are doing, to keep ourselves and those around us safe," said Dr. Henry in a joint statement.
"We must not lose sight of the fact that COVID-19 symptoms can be mild, making it very easy to spread the virus to those around us. That is why our foundational rules for safe social interactions are so important."
Dr. Henry adds "fewer faces and bigger spaces" remains B.C.'s guide as we move forward, and today's statement came with a renewed urging to be cautious of private parties, in particular those with many people and those that are indoors.
"Spending an extended period of time, even an evening together with a number of people in an enclosed space, increases the likelihood that you will be exposed to someone with COVID-19. As much as possible, British Columbians are asked to avoid closed spaces, crowds and close contact with others," said Dr. Henry.
"To keep new cases low, we need to use layers of protection. To always stay home and not travel when ill, even if we may think it is a cold or allergies; to wash our hands regularly; keep a safe distance from others and use a mask when it is more challenging to maintain physical distance.
“As COVID-19 remains in our communities, the actions you take every day make a difference and will help to protect all of us."
COVID-19 cases in other B.C. regions are as follows:
- Vancouver Coastal Health = 1,012
- Fraser Health = 1,643
- Interior Health = 209
- Island Health = 135
Additionally, the province reports 51 people who reside outside of Canada have tested positive in B.C. for the virus.
- with files from Lindsay William-Ross, Vancouver Is Awesome
