The Government of Saskatchewan has confirmed 26 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 415.

Nineteen of the new cases are from La Loche and surrounding area, four are from the north (including three in Lloydminster) and three in the Saskatoon area.

While there is only one positive case of COVID-19 involving a patient at Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert, and outbreak has been declared at the hospital. Contract tracing and investigation is underway to ensure all contacts are identified.

Of the 415 reported cases, 112 are considered active.

Two more people have recovered from the coronavirus, bringing the total in the province to 297.

There are currently 10 people in hospital, including three people in intensive care in Saskatoon.

While there is some concern over the latest numbers, chief medical health officer Dr. Saqib Shahab says it is not one that should worry a lot of the province.

“We’ve very concerned with the increase in cases,” Shahab said. “However, apart from La Loche and Lloydminster Hospital, the rest of Saskatchewan remains pretty quiet.”

Shahab also indicated the plan to re-open Saskatchewan will continue with Phase 1 starting Monday except for in Lloydminster and the La Loche area.  He says while the rest of Saskatchewan remains pretty quiet, it will not be business as usual and there are strict criteria that must be followed when some businesses once again open their doors.