21 new COVID-19 cases identified over 24 hours in BC

BC's daily COVID-19 case figures jumped to 21 on Wednesday, following just two confirmed cases the previous day.

With no live press conference from provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on Wednesday, little explanation was given for the sudden spike.

“Today, we have 21 new cases of COVID-19, for a total of 2,467 cases in British Columbia," stated a press release.

“There are 317 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, and 2,001 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, 43 individuals are hospitalized, 10 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation."

A new health care outbreak has been identified at an assisted-living facility in Mission, where outbreaks at a federal jail and multiple food plants continued to be monitored.

Earlier on Wednesday, premier John Horgan reported that the province is still working with some unnamed sectors to deal with concerns about new provincial guidelines allowing them to restart their businesses during the pandemic.

On Tuesday, phase two of the province's restart plan kicked off, permitting businesses such as fitness centres, salons and restaurants to reopen to the public under new health guidelines.

Parks, beaches and recreational facilities are also all allowed to reopen.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also extended the Canada-US border closure until June 21.