B.C. records 47 new cases of COVID-19 as officials call for compassion

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — As B.C. sees another day with dozens of new cases, health officials urge everyone to keep working together through the pandemic – and one way to do that is by checking in on friends and family.

In the joint statement from B.C.’s Minister of Health Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, they reported an additional 47 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, along with no deaths.

No new outbreaks in long-term care or in the community were reported and the recovery rate for B.C. is 85 per cent.

Wednesday’s update is one of the highest for daily case counts – following 50 cases on Friday- since April 28.

Of note:
– Today & Jul 31 highest new daily cases since Apr 28
– Highest active cases since May 16, 5th highest on record
– new cases in FH, VCH, Interior Health
– Dr Henry said long wkend case bump would only start being seen now#bcpoli @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/qxX5DFEZ7G

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) August 5, 2020

Dix and Henry reminded everyone to keep in touch with their friends and family when it comes to dealing with the virus.

“As COVID-19 remains in our communities, so does the anxiety and stress that comes with the uncertainty, the increased isolation and the need to take precautions in everything we do,” they said.

“We remind people to take the time to check in with your friends, family and neighbours, young and old, to provide a mental health boost and to ensure they have the support we all need – especially for those who may be self-isolating.”

Health officials urge those who need additional support to reach out to resources available.

“For youth who may be struggling, the Kids Help Phone is available by phone, text and online 1 800 668-6868 and at: Kidshelpphone.ca.”

On Tuesday, a release from Morneau Shepell, a human resources and technology company, found July was another tough month for Canadians struggling with the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic alongside seismic cultural changes.

And people experiencing violence in their homes can also receive support 24/7 through VictimLinkBC and 1-800-563-0808.

During the pandemic, advocacy groups have reported an increase in calls.

According to Battered Women Support Services, the virus has impacted women experiencing violence, such as an abusive partner withholding necessary items like disinfectant, or sharing misinformation to scare their partner.

Being in self-isolation with an abusive partner could impact someone’s escape or safety plan or lead to the partner escalating isolation tactics.

“People all across B.C. have demonstrated unparalleled compassion and kindness in the face of COVID-19. It is something we can all be proud of and something we must continue,” Dix and Henry said.

RELATED: 

• Months of COVID-19, seismic cultural change take toll on Canadians’ mental health

• Increased calls to crisis line during pandemic, concern for women isolating with abusive partner

The province has a total number of 3,834 confirmed cases and 195 deaths. There are 351 active cases of COVID-19, with nine people hospitalized and six of those are in intensive care.