Officials plead for reduction in gatherings

B.C.'S provincial health officer is urging British Columbians to “step back” from social gatherings, as 223 new cases of COVID-19, but no additional deaths, were announced Friday.

“This is our opportunity and the time to take a step back from our social interactions and keep our groups small this weekend,” Dr. Bonnie Henry said in a statement. “In doing this, we show our appreciation and support for the important work of contact tracers.”

As of Friday, there are 2,009 active cases of the coronavirus, while another 4,637 individuals are being monitored following identified exposures to confirmed cases.

There remain 75 people hospitalized as a result, 24 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining active cases are at home in self-isolation. A total of 10,247 people have recovered from the virus, while 256 have died.

Two new health care facilities are experiencing outbreaks: Laurel Place in Surrey and Fair Haven Homes Burnaby Lodge.

Outbreaks that have been declared over include those at PICS Assisted Living, Good Samaritan Delta View Care Centre, Chartwell Carrington House Retirement Residence and Thornebridge Gardens Retirement Residence.

There remain 16 active outbreaks at long-term care or assisted-living facilities, and two at acute-care facilities. New outbreaks were declared at two companies — Coast Spas Manufacturing and Pace Processing — along with exposure events around the province.

“In recent days, we have seen a number of new outbreaks of COVID-19 in the community and in long-term care facilities,” said Henry.