On Thursday, April 9, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry confirmed 34 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the provincial total of cases to date to 1,370.
The cases are distributed as follows:
- Vancouver Coastal Health: 626
- Fraser Health: 508
- Vancouver Island Health: 82
- Interior Health: 130
- Northern Health: 24
Additionally, 132 are currently hospitalized, with 68 in critical care or ICU.
To date, 858 B.C. residents who tested positive are now considered fully recovered.
There have been two new deaths, bringing the provincial total number of COVID-19 related fatalities to 50. There was one death in each the Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions.
"We're going to have a bumpy ride for a while," cautioned Henry, adding that we must continue on doing as we have been doing to distance ourselves and stay home.
Henry pointed out current and new options for B.C. residents who need resources and mental health support to carry on during these challenging time.
"It's a weekend to unwind, and be kind," noted Henry, reminding us that we are heading into a long weekend that includes a number of religious holidays and celebrations.
However, Henry reiterated that any celebrations must be done from a distance, ideally in our own homes.
"Now is not the time to travel. Have fun but be safe," added Henry.
Henry had several suggetions for ways to spend the long weekend safely, from having a distanced block party with neighbours during the nightly 7 p.m. cheer, reading a book in the forecasted sunshine, or offering to help elderly neighbours with yardwork. Stream a movie online, do some cooking, ride a bike - but do it all safely, and close to - or in your own home.
