Province working on new COVID-19 measures: 20,000 tests a day, 'rigorous' border screening

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney says the province is working toward a COVID-19 strategy for Alberta that includes running 20,000 tests a day.

On Tuesday night, Kenney addressed the province in a televised speech, where he spoke on how the province can relaunch the economy once social distancing measures lift. 

But the premier said this virus will continue to pose a threat to public health until a vaccine or treatment is widely available.

“We are determined to continue leading the world in testing, the foundation of our relaunch strategy,” Kenney said.

The province is working toward “an aggressive system of mass testing” which will use new tests that are being approved right now to identify positive cases and those with immunity more quickly.

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Strong border screening will remain in place, Kenney said.

“I believe it was a mistake for Canada to wait so long to close our borders, especially from countries with high levels of infection. While Alberta does not control who can fly here, we will deploy a much more rigorous approach than the federal government has in screening and quarantining international arrivals,” Kenney said.

The premier said they will strictly enforce quarantine orders to ensure compliance.

The province will also encourage and facilitate the use of masks in public spaces, like mass transit.

“These and other smart, focused measures will allow us to relaunch our economy once the worst is over, while protecting ourselves from future outbreaks. We will closely study successful countries as our guide."