Even as some provinces have reported record daily counts of COVID-19 cases, health experts warn that the actual rate of infection is likely much higher, noting that the data has been clouded by delays in holidays and with hospitals and test centers reaching their limits.
After taking the holiday weekend, several provincial and territorial governments are ready to resume their COVID updates today.
Yesterday, Quebec Health Minister Christian Dube announced that some health workers who have tested positive for COVID-19 will be allowed to remain at work. He said the move is necessary to keep the health care system operational and that the decision would be made on a case-by-case basis under certain conditions.
Quebec reported 12,833 new cases and 702 hospitalizations, with 15 more deaths related to the virus.
Manitoba and Ontario have said they are considering similar measures to avoid overwhelming their own healthcare systems. Manitoba reported 825 new cases and five deaths yesterday, while Ontario reported 8,825 new infections.
Ontario also announced that starting Thursday, long-term care homes will not accept general visitors or allow residents to leave for social reasons to avoid exposure to the virus.
Alberta’s director of medical health said the province recorded 8,250 cases between Dec. 23 and Dec. 28. Dr. Deena Hinshaw said hospitalizations remain “relatively stable,” but noted that it is still too early to know if Omicron will affect the healthcare system.
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In Atlantic Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador reported a record count of 194 new infections in a single day. Nova Scotia confirmed 561 new cases, while New Brunswick reported 306 new cases.
British Columbia health officials announced 1,785 new cases, though they cautioned that the data is preliminary.
This Canadian Press report was first published on December 29, 2021.
Reference-www.nationalobserver.com