Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw confirmed 319 new cases of COVID-19 during today's update, bringing the total to 3720.

Of these, 1357 people have recovered.

480 cases have now been confirmed among employees of the Cargill plant North of High River, and 124 at JBS plant in Brooks.

Two deaths have been confirmed since yesterday, both of which occurred in Brooks. Both were announced during yesterday's conference, but were not confirmed to be COVID-19 related at the time.

There have now been 68 COVID related deaths in Alberta.

Dr. Hinshaw provided some clarity on mass gatherings.

"I want to clarify that the mass gathering restrictions currently in place also apply to all summer events and festivals in Alberta. To be clear, the orders in place prohibit gatherings of more than 15 people. They also require people gathered in groups of fewer than 15 to maintain a distance of two meters from one another."

She says no such mass gatherings will be taking place until at least September.

Two large Calgary events were announced to have been cancelled the same day: The Calgary Stampede and the Calgary Folk Festival.

Dr. Hinshaw also spoke about summer homes.

"I also strongly advise against going to summer homes at this time. While we are all eager for a relaunch and wanting to see an easing of restrictions, now is not the time to have people moving through the province and possibly unknowingly spreading the virus. Please continue to hold to the measures we need to take together to protect each other."

To view the original conference, click here.

For more information on COVID-19 in Alberta, click here.

 

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