Why are cases in Edmonton on the rise?

The Edmonton zone has closed the gap in number of COVID-19 cases between it and Calgary, which was a provincial hot spot during the first couple months of the pandemic. 

“It does look like people might be feeling more confident than really the situation deserves,” infectious disease expert Dr. Lynora Saxinger told CTV News. She reinforced the importance of physical distancing, wearing masks and remaining cautious. 

Many of the people who are testing positive in Edmonton are under the age of 40. As of June 22, at least 40% of the cases could be attributed to Edmontonians between the ages of 20 and 39. 

“What we’re seeing with respect to spread and when we’re doing our case follow up of cases, it does seem to be often in social settings where there is transmission,” Dr. Deena Hinshaw said during an in-person update in mid-June.

“We’re therefore encouraging all Albertans, but particularly people in that younger group, to make sure they’re thinking about the measures they need to put in place, limiting their close contact with others.”

At least five Edmonton bars and restaurants also closed again in mid-June after staff or customers tested positive for the disease.