Two COVID-19 outbreaks declared along with 287 cases in B.C.

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — B.C. health officials are reporting more than 200 new COVID-19 cases along with one new outbreak in the community and one at a health-care facility.

In a joint statement from the Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, and Deputy Minister of Health, Stephen Brown, there are 287 new cases to report, including four epi-linked cases. 

The recent cases bring the province’s case total to 13,875. 

Two more COVID-19 related deaths were reported for a total of 261 deaths. 

The province is announcing a new health-care facility outbreak once again in Surrey at PICS assisted-living facility.

RELATED: COVID-19 outbreaks at two more care homes, third Site C worker positive

There are now a total of 21 active outbreaks at long-term care and assisted-living facilities. 

Meanwhile, the outbreaks at Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion and at Delta Hospital have been declared over.  

Also, the Ministry of Health says there is one new community outbreak at the Okanagan Men’s Centre — a rehab facility near Kelowna. 

Henry and Brown are once again asking British Columbians to keep groups small at home.

“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,” Wednesday’s statement reads. 

On Monday, Henry said the province will be limiting the size of gatherings in private homes after an influx of cases over the weekend. 

READ MORE: B.C. limits size of gatherings in private homes, sets weekend record with 817 COVID-19 cases

The order limits private home gatherings to immediate household members, plus six others in your social bubble. 

“The new order is about ensuring what happens in our homes is in step with what we are doing elsewhere. Just as we need to keep our groups to no more than six when we go to restaurants,” Henry and Brown say. 

“Let’s save the parties for when it is safe for everyone to celebrate. If you are planning a wedding in your home, make it your immediate family only and save the celebration for next year. If you are organizing a birthday party for your children, only invite those small number of friends from your close social circle, not the entire class or sports team. The things we do at parties and celebrations including talking, hugging and eating and drinking together indoors are much riskier than our normal school or work activities.”

The two health officials added by taking the recommended precautions, it will help British Columbians loved ones, seniors, Elders, and communities. 

There are 2,316 active cases of COVID-19 and 5,358 people under active public health monitoring due to identified exposure to known cases. 

Eleven thousand two hundred forty-four people who tested positive have recovered.

“Currently, 87 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 25 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

On Thursday, for the first time since the provincial election was called, Health Minister-elect Adrian Dix will be joining Henry in her B.C. COVID-19 update.

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