The first death due to coronavirus was reported in Alberta today (Thursday, March 19).
Dr. Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health for the province, made the announcement at her daily media update this afternoon.
The patient who died was a man in his 60s in the Edmonton zone. He contracted coronavirus in the community and was admitted to hospital on March 12. He also had a pre-existing medical condition.
"As heartbreaking as this news is, it was expected," said Hinshaw.
"This is a dangerous virus. While most people who become ill with COVID only experience mild symptoms, it can make others very sick."
Twenty-seven new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in Alberta today too, bringing the total to 146. At least seven of these were spread in the community.
"The total number of deaths, the total number of hospitalisations, the total number of cases, is on us, is on Albertans," said Hinshaw.
She said Albertans have to take this seriously and stay at home unless it is essential to go out.
