BANFF – Banff National Park is likely to hit the COVID-19 watch list given an escalation in the number of positive cases.
As of Wednesday (Nov. 11), there were eight positive COVID cases in Banff and Lake Louise, however officials say the numbers are likely to continue to grow with the provincial government update this afternoon.
Earl’s in Banff has closed its doors due to a positive COVID-19 case and the manager is unsure when the restaurant will reopen.
“We’re doing due diligence and following AHS protocol,” he said.
In a note sent out to stakeholders on Thursday (Nov. 12), Parks Canada said it has been made aware of recent COVID-19 confirmed cases in the Lake Louise area.
“Parks Canada continues to monitor the situation and follow direction provided by Alberta Health Services,” read the statement from the superintendent’s office.
A community moves to watch list status when there are 50 active cases per 100,000 people – which would be at least 10 active cases in Banff’s case.
If the province puts Banff and Lake Louise on watch status, the communities would be required to adopt mandatory restrictions of 15 or fewer people for indoor and outdoor social and family gatherings.
That applies to banquets, award ceremonies, wedding or funeral receptions, luncheons, potlucks, birthday parties, baby showers or retirement dinners as examples.
It wouldn’t apply to seated audience gatherings such as conferences, sports, restaurants, fitness centres, wedding ceremonies, funeral services or worship services.
In addition, areas with watch status are asked to voluntarily limit their contact to no more than three cohorts: your core household, your school, and one other sport or social cohort. Young children in child-care can be part of four cohorts.
Parks Canada advises people to continue following the advice of public health officials: stay at home when sick, and if showing COVID-19 symptoms, immediately self-isolate and contact the public health authority or a health professional for guidance.
“Parks Canada is committed to the health and safety of the community,” said the statement to stakeholders. “We will continue to support and follow the direction and guidelines of public health officials.”
