B.C. government reports 40 new COVID-19 cases; total of 12 in Interior Health

The latest report from the provincial health officer on the spread of the COVID-19 virus in B.C. showed 40 new cases for a total of 271.

There are 12 in the Interior Health region.

One more person, associated with the Lynn Valley Care Centre in North vancouver, has passed away. Seventeen people in B.C. are hospitalized and nine of those are in intensive care.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, said it is not optional for people to ignore the social distancing guidelines and basic things such as keeping your hands clean and not touching your face. But she added that it is always good to get outside if possible and do things like walking, bike riding, and family activities, while maintaining a safe distance.