BC has recorded 102 new cases of COVID-19 since Friday, and there are several community exposure events, according to the latest update by the provincial health officer.
“There are several community exposure events. Public health teams are actively contact tracing and requesting the assistance of anyone who may have been exposed to monitor themselves closely and follow public health guidance,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry.
In the first reporting period from July 17 to July 18, there were 51 new cases. From July 18 to July 19, there were 19 new cases, and in the last 24 hours, there have been as many as 32 new cases.
“If the total COVID-19 cases, 16 individuals are hospitalized, four of whom are in intensive care, while the remaining people recovering at home in self-isolation.
The epidemiological data also shows some concerning upward trends, the update says.
“The infection rate for new cases is increasing above one to one, and we are also seeing an uptick in our case curve. This tells us that we are on edge of increasing our social interactions too much and are at risk of a rebound,” Dr. Henry noted.
“We need to bend our curve back down to where it belongs.”
The top doctor urged people to keep their groups small and only spend time with those you know.
“If you are hosting a small gathering, remember ‘fewer faces and bigger spaces.’ Keep your gatherings small, know everyone who is coming, stay outside as much as possible and have a designated ‘contact keeper’ so you are able to quickly alert everyone afterward, if necessary.”
There are 253 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 2,858 people who tested positive have recovered.
