Alberta just saw its third highest increase in new coronavirus cases ever

COVID-19 is very much on the rise in Alberta.

The Province of Alberta has revealed new coronavirus numbers showing that Monday, October 5 marked the third largest single-day increase in new cases.

This comes after a weekend that saw higher-than-usual detected cases as well as a significant spike in active cases, bringing the province to an active case count higher than had been seen all summer.

• See also: 
  • Here’s what it’s like to get a walk-in coronavirus test in Calgary
  • Mandatory mask policy “significantly reduces spread” of coronavirus: study
  • Here’s how Alberta’s 19,211 coronavirus cases break down by region

In the 24 hours between Sunday, October 4 and Monday, October 5, Alberta detected 276 confirmed cases of coronavirus, and 18 probable cases.

This marks a higher daily increase than all other days throughout the now nearly seven-month-long pandemic, with the exception of just April 23, which saw 336 cases, and April 22, which saw 284 confirmed cases.

Those two days were exactly one week before Alberta hit its active case peak on April 30 at 2,996.

The province is currently at 1,900, the highest its been since May 7.

Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw warned in the latest press conference on Monday that the next week would be critical for virus containment, urging Albertans to stay home if they are feeling sick and to exercise caution during the Thanksgiving long weekend.

As always, Albertans are directed to maintain safe physical distance, wear a mask when out in public, and maintain proper hand hygiene.

Anyone who feels they may be exhibiting coronavirus symptoms is urged to complete the Alberta Health Services self-evaluation online and to book a test if prompted.