COVID-19 map now lists single case in County of Barrhead

A single active case of COVID-19 has been identified within the County of Barrhead, according to the geospatial map maintained by the Alberta government that lists all active cases of the virus.

The map does not specify whether the active case was identified within the Town of Barrhead or in the county.

However, with that new case, the number of COVID-19 infections within the municipality now stands at three. (Two cases were identified earlier this year but have since recovered.)

As of today, the number of active COVID-19 cases within the province stands at 1,107, with 48 patients in hospital and 11 in intensive care.

Edmonton is currently the site of Alberta’s largest outbreak with 631 active cases. Westlock County also has one active case.

Historically, 12,501 cases have been identified throughout Alberta. The vast majority of individuals who have contracted the virus have recovered, but there have been 227 deaths.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health, said during an Aug. 18 update on the COVID-19 situation, stressed that it is critical not to stigmatize those who test positive for the virus or come into close contact with those individuals, as that may discourage testing.

“Instead, we need to take this as a reminder that all of us have to follow all measures tenaciously, even if we are tired of washing our hands, wearing a mask or being unable to hug the people we care about,” she said.

Hinshaw said Alberta’s 90,000 teachers and other school staff are invited to get tested before the start of the school year.

In addition to getting tested through Alberta Health Services (AHS), Rita’s Apothecary and Home Health Care is also offering testing for asymptomatic individuals, though you need to phone ahead to book an appointment.

Shoppers Drug Mart and other pharmacies owned by Loblaws are also now offering asymptomatic testing.

If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 or have been tested positive, you are legally required to stay home for 10 days provided you do not have a pre-existing health condition that would cause these symptoms. These include a cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat.

Kevin Berger, TownandCountryToday.com

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