The COVID-19 Delta variant continues to drive up the numbers with Alberta reporting its largest number of new virus cases since back on May 20th today (August 18).  

Yesterday in the province there were 678 new cases of the virus which made the active cases rise to 5,933, an increase of 306 from the day before.

The new cases were the result of 9,215 tests the province conducted, bringing the provincial positivity rate to about 7.6 percent on the day. 

The Calgary zone continues to lead the way in active cases with 2,088.  The zone includes both Airdrie and Rocky View Country which are reporting 94 and 48 active cases respectively.

The Edmonton zone isn't far behind Calgary for active cases with now 1,669.  

Two more people have passed away with COVID-19 making the total number of deaths from the virus now 2,338.  People in hospital and ICU battling the infection both rose again.  There are now 184 in hospital, 48 that are being treated in intensive care.  

The province now says 77 percent of eligible Albertans have gotten their first dose of a COVID vaccine while 68.2 percent are fully immunized.  

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