Coronavirus (COVID-19) Local News

“We understand this may be disruptive to people in our community, but the health and safety of all people in Banff is our top priority."

“Although this action is not required by the Government of Alberta, we believe that it is the right decision to proactively reduce opportunities for spreading the virus. All Elevation Place memberships will be suspended until further notice (members do not need to take any action).”

As of Monday (March 16), Nakiska Ski Area and Norquay announced closures, while Sunshine and Lake Louise remain open, but are taking precautions to keep patrons safe, including closing lodges, increased cleaning and limiting numbers on gondola lifts. The Canmore Nordic Centre facilities remain closed, however outdoor recreation activities are permitted to continue.

Other measures include closing all licensed child care facilities, out-of-school care programs and preschool programs indefinitely; restricting mass gatherings at places of worship; cancelling post-secondary classes; and advising long-term and continuing care facilities to limit visitation to essential visitors only.

Practising good hygiene and employing preventative measures like social distancing can help prevent spread. Travel outside Canada is not recommended at this time, and anyone returning from outside of Canada should self-isolate for 14 days. 

Six new individuals tested positive for COVID-19

Doctors are now able to bill $20 per call to help combat COVID-19.

NEW YORK — You're washing your hands countless times a day to try to ward off the coronavirus. You should also wash that extension of your hand and breeding ground for germs — your phone.