Interior Health (IH) is reporting 69 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, May 18.
The total number of cases in the region is now at 11,816 since the pandemic began, with 476 active cases. There are 22 individuals hospitalized due to the virus, and 13 in intensive care.
Overall in B.C., provincial health officials recorded 411 new cases, the fifth straight day with fewer than 500 new cases overnight.
IH provided an update on current outbreaks in the region:
- Orchard Haven long-term care in Keremeos has two cases: one resident and one staff.
- Spring Valley long-term care in Kelowna has 44 cases: 32 residents, 12 staff/other, with six deaths connected to the outbreak.
Premier John Horgan confirmed the province will make an announcement regarding the phased return to recreational travel and indoor dining next week.
“But I want to stress for people that we set the May long weekend as a target for the circuit breaker because we need to make sure we reduce cases,” Horgan said.
The province’s immunization program is now open to all adults 18 years and older, along with other community vaccination clinics organized by regional health regions.
If you haven’t registered to book an appointment or would like to book an appointment for your vaccine, visit the province’s booking website.
@twilamam twila.amato@blackpress.ca
