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“We’re watching those very closely and preparing the recommendations to bring forward to our elected decision-makers for their consideration. No decisions have yet been made, but of course we’re watching very closely and considering what may need to be done if our numbers do not go down.”
The most recent measures introduced by Alberta includedearlier last calls and closing times at eateries and a ban on indoor group sportsand were announced Nov. 13. The impact of those restrictions will begin to be reflected in provincial case data as soon as this weekend, Hinshaw said.
The update came as other jurisdictions hard-hit by the second wave of COVID-19 take dramatic steps to limit the virus’s spread. On Friday, Ontario placed the Toronto and Peel regions under a lockdown that will last at least 28 days, greatly restricting gatherings and business operations. And British Columbia announced Thursday a ban on socializing indoors with people other than household members and mandatory masking for all indoor public spaces, including stores.
Alberta remains the only province in Canada that has not introduced a mask mandate, though many municipalities including Calgary and Edmonton have had mask bylaws in place since summer.
Hinshaw declined to speculate on what further measures may look like and whether it may include a mask mandate, saying the team that makes recommendations to the province has yet to discuss future restrictions.
The doctor asked Albertans continuing following public-health guidelines, into the weekend and beyond.
“We are all tired, and the stakes are higher now than ever before,” she said. “Everyone is carrying heavy burdens right now. Please be compassionate with yourself and with others, and remember that we can only get through this by working with each other.”
Twitter: @jasonfherring
