Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health, is self-isolating after reporting mild symptoms of a cold.
Alberta Health confirmed the news in a press release with details about Monday's COVID-19 update.
"She is currently experiencing mild symptoms consistent with the common cold, likely due to the long hours that she has been working in recent weeks. Her symptoms do not appear to be consistent with COVID-19," the release reads.
Following provincial recommendations, Hinshaw will be self-isolating until her test results have been confirmed.
Alberta Health said Hinshaw will still be performing all her duties as chief medical officer of health while in self-isolation. Instead of appearing in person, Hinshaw will speak via video conferencing at the COVID-19 update at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.
Hinshaw has been praised for her calm demeanour and consistent daily updates around COVID-19, especially since the first case was confirmed March 5.
Hinshaw has been consistently advising Albertans on how to protect themselves against the virus and prevent spread, including practising basic hygiene such as hand washing, and staying home when sick.
Alberta currently has 56 cases of COVID-19, with 40 cases in the Calgary zone, 15 in the Edmonton zone, and one in the Central zone.
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