What you need to know about COVID-19 in B.C. for July 6, 2020
THE LATEST:
There have been 31 new cases across B.C. since Friday.
6 people died from COVID-19 between Friday and Monday.
There have been 2,978 positive cases in B.C. since the pandemic started.
There are 166 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
16 people are being treated in hospitals, including 4 in ICU.
183 British Columbians have died because of COVID-19 as of July 6.
Benefits have been extended for low-income seniors and those on disability and income assistance.
Over the weekend, Providence Health Care announced three new deaths at Holy Family Hospital.
B.C. health officials announced Monday afternoon there have been 31 new cases of COVID-19 and six new deaths since the last provincial update on July 3.
In the three days since Friday, nine people tested positive between Friday and Saturday, 15 between Saturday and Sunday and seven between Sunday and Monday.
Health Minister Adrian Dix says all six deaths occurred in long-term care facilities.
"To lose 6 people, all in long-term care, is a source of enormous grief for the families involved and the community involved."
Of the 166 active cases of the virus in B.C., 16 people are being treated in hospitals, including four in intensive care units.
Cautious new normal
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said as the province has transitioned to Phase 3 of its reopening, more people have been increasing social contacts.
She says while it's important to remain cautious and follow public health rules, people should not rush to judgment about visitors to B.C. who are required to quarantine for 14 days.
"We need to show understanding. Let's assume the best, rather than offering judgment."
Dix also gave an update on plans to reinstate visits at long-term care facilities saying that visitations could start at some facilities as early as next week.
He expects the majority of operators will submit plans for visitations this week.
Benefits for seniors extended
The province said Monday it is extending benefits for low-income seniors and those on disability and income assistance. The previously announced program adds a monthly benefit of $300 to assistance cheques as part of the provincial government's $5-billion COVID-19 financial aid plan.
The program was set to end in June but will now continue through Aug. 26.
The province will be providing an exemption to clawbacks on federal employment insurance benefits for the next three months, including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). The exemption will now last as long as the federal benefits do.
Over the weekend, more deaths were announced at a long-term care facility in Vancouver.
Officials with Providence Health Care said three more residents have died at Holy Family Hospital, bringing the total number of deaths at the facility to eight since the pandemic began.
The COVID-19 outbreak at Holy Family was announced on June 9. To date, 42 residents and 24 staff have tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
Holy Family Hospital is one of three long-term care or assisted-living facilities currently dealing with active COVID-19 outbreaks. There is also an outbreak at one acute care facility.
Friday, Henry announced 162 active cases in the province, with a total of 2,947 positive cases since the pandemic began.
READ MORE:
Top COVID-19 stories today
Important reminders:
B.C.'s top doctor, Dr. Bonnie Henry, said the risk of contracting coronavirus in B.C. communities remains low. Health officials widely agree the most important thing you can do to prevent coronavirus and other illnesses is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. The World Health Organization said more than 80 per cent of COVID-19 infections are estimated to be mild.
What's happening elsewhere in Canada
As of Sunday, Canada had 105,536 confirmed and presumptive coronavirus cases. A CBC News tally of deaths based on provincial reports, regional health information and CBC's reporting stood at 8,728.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Common symptoms include:
Fever.
Cough.
Tiredness.
But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia.
What should I do if I feel sick?
Stay home. Isolate yourself and call your local public health authority. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested.
What can I do to protect myself?
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Keep them clean.
Keep your distance from people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
More detailed information on the outbreak is available on the federal government's website.
If you have a COVID-19-related story we should pursue that affects British Columbians, please email us at impact@cbc.ca
