There are now 1336 cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in B.C., after health officials announced 45 new cases Wednesday.
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry reports that there are 615 cases in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Coastal Health (VCH), 487 in Fraser Health, 81 on Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Island, 130 in Interior Health and 23 in Northern Health.
There are no new cases associated with long-term care facilities. Currently, there are _ active outbreaks in facilities in the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions. There are now 226 people who have tested positve for COVID-19 in these facilties.
There are currently 135 people in acute care in hospital, and 61 are in intensive care.
838 people have fully recovered and are no longer in isolation.
There have been five new deaths. 48 people have now passed away from COVID-19 in B.C.
Henry emphasizes the importantance of staying home over the weekend, and of using vitual tools to connect with friends and family. She adds that people who are in self-isolation will be receiving calls in order to ensure that they have everything that they need.
Henry also encourages everyone to be kind to people who have to continue to work during the pandemic, such as those working in grocery stores, pharmacies, and in health care. She adds that isolation can be challenging, and that anyone who has an underlying illness should contact a doctor through virtual care. She mentions and as useful resources for mental health.
Health Minister Adrian Dix adds that the province has made significant steps to prepare for the worst during the pandemic. He adds that eveyone working in the health care system is vital during this time.
Last week, Henry asked everyone to forgo all non-essential travel, particularly to small, remote communities around the province. She added that these communites may be overwhelmed and not have the resources to support people.
In a previous briefing, Henry noted that people should consult the new online assessment tool if they aren't sure if they require further testing or assessment for COVID-19. She also underscored the importance of physical distancing, hand washing, covering your mouth if you cough, not touching your face and staying home if you are sick.
