Alberta COVID-19 infections are at record highs as the highly-infectious Omicron variant spreads through the province. There are now 34,276 active reported cases of COVID-19 in Alberta, although Premier Jason Kenney said Tuesday that that number is based on PCR tests and the real total is much higher. Late last year, Alberta said rapid tests should be used for most people with symptoms and encouraged Albertans to use rapid tests over a PCR test. The premier also called on the federal government to authorize the use of Pfizer's antiviral medication Paxlovid, aimed at treating mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. The delay will also be accompanied by the distribution of 8.6 million at-home rapid tests and medical grade masks.

Source: CBC News January 05, 2022 08:47 UTC