FORT MCMURRAY (660 NEWS) – Despite active cases of COVID-19 in the Wood Buffalo region dropping below 50, the municipality has confirmed that the current face covering bylaw remains in place for now.
According to a press release, the bylaw was renewed for a 30-day period on January 27, when cases were above the 50 threshold. That means it will remain in effect until February 25, at which time it will be reassessed.
Updated statistics from the Government of Alberta on Tuesday afternoon showed 41 active cases in Fort McMurray and three in the surrounding region. If active cases remain below 50 on February 25, the bylaw will be relaxed. However, if cases jump up again by then, the bylaw will be extended for another 30 days.
When the bylaw is in effect, face coverings are required in all indoor public spaces and vehicles. Masks are mandatory on public transit regardless of how many active cases are in the region.
Some municipalities in Alberta have opted to or are considering letting local mask bylaws expire considering there is still a provincial mask mandate in place.
