Dr. Deena Hinshaw during her COVID-19 update on Monday, November 9 (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By Canadian Press

Stricter Measures Considered

Short, sharp economic lockdown possible amid Alberta COVID-19 case climb: Hinshaw

Nov 9, 2020 | 4:58 PM

EDMONTON – Alberta’s chief medical officer of health says the province is considering a short, but sharp economic lockdown that would act as a “circuit breaker” to help reverse a recent spike in COVID-19 cases.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw says it’s one of many options on the table and any decision must be weighed against broader issues such as mental health, well-being and community impact.

“As I’ve said before, when we’re looking at all of our options, we know that there is no one perfect way to manage our COVID-19 experience. We need to look at all options on the table, including something like that ‘circuit breaker’, including what we are doing now, which is giving Albertans every opportunity to walk along with us, to come along side and be a part of the solution, before we impose restrictions.”

Hinshaw reports there were 644 new COVID-19 cases for November 8, meaning there have been 3,700 cases in the last five days alone.

A public letter written to the Alberta government by 174 doctors — including emergency room physicians and infectious disease specialists — is urging the province to shut down major parts of the economy for two weeks to address soaring case numbers.

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They say the health-care system and Albertans will face catastrophic consequences if that’s not done.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 9, 2020.

(The Canadian Press)