Vancouver Island reported three new cases of COVID-19 today — the first new cases in the health region since Friday. Across the province, there were 287 new positive tests in the last 24 hours, according to a joint statement from Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer and Stephen Brown, deputy health minister. There were two new deaths from the novel coronavirus in B.C.
The new cases bring the number of active cases in B.C. to 2,316. Of these, 87 are in hospital, 25 of whom are in intensive care. There are 5,358 people under public health monitoring due to potential exposure to the virus.
“Our COVID-19 safety efforts start at home and recently we have seen a number of new cases and clusters directly connected to social events in private homes. That is why there is now a provincial health officer order in place restricting the number of people who can safely be in our homes,” the statement said.
The new order limits gatherings in homes to the household plus a “safe six.” This refers to a group of six friends who consistently spend time with only each other.
“We can still spend time with our friends and family, but right now we must all keep to our ‘safe six’ only or take our events outside, where it is far easier to maintain a safe physical distance,” the statement said.
“Now is the time for us to take a step back from our in-person social events and gatherings, and connect virtually instead. This will help to protect our loved ones, our seniors, elders and our communities as we move forward.”
