Dr. Bonnie Henry

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There have been 26 new COVID-19 cases in B.C., according to the latest update from the provincial health officer.

Provincial health officer Bonnie Henry gave a regular update Saturday, May 2 on the state of the province during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There has been an increase in the number of cases in B.C. associated with the Kearl Lake work camp in Alberta, she said.

“We have now seen transmission in families when people have come back from working and not realizing they’re ill… and this can cause an ongoing effect in our communities here,” she said.

It’s vitality important that residents who have worked at the site since March 24 need to self-isolate upon their return to the B.C., she said.

“We cannot afford to have any missteps as we look to ease our restrictions in the coming days and weeks.”

There have been two additional deaths today, bringing the number to 114, including one in the Coastal Health region and in the Fraser Health region, Henry said, adding that 1,376 people have recovered in B.C. There has been 2,171 cases reported in the province so far. One new case has been reported in the Interior Health region.

Henry also addressed B.C’s youth during the news conference, acknowledging that it is a difficult time as youth are unable to physically meet with their peers.

“I want you to know that you’re not alone. We understand that this can be very anxiety-provoking. We understand there’s a lot of things we don’t know and we’re working through it together.”

There are ways to receive help if you need it, she said, adding that both kids and parents can contact the Kids Help Line at 1-800-668-6868.

She encouraged youth to get outside and stay active, and to ask parents and teachers for help if they need it.

Henry also noted how challenging it can be for this year’s high school graduates.

Traditional graduation ceremonies are on hold and won't be held in the same way this summer, she said.

“We are thinking about that and teachers, administrations and parents are still working to make this a memorable experience for all of you,” she said. “We congratulate all of you on your efforts so far.”

During a virtual town hall, Thursday night, Central Okanagan Public Schools board chair Moyra Baxter said graduation ceremonies will not be taking place as they normally would in pre-pandemic times.

This story was updated on May 2 at 1 p.m. More to come.

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