The UBC neighbourhood is experiencing a sudden, sharp spike in COVID-19 cases, according to data released by the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).
The latest update to the BCCDC’s COVID-19 dashboard has revealed that the rate of new cases in the UBC area reached 13 cases per 100,000 residents between July 23 and 29, up from just one case per 100,000 residents as of the previous update.
Meanwhile, the testing positivity rate reached three per cent, up from zero per cent as of the previous update.
The proportion of vaccinated and unvaccinated residents testing positive is currently unknown, but the UBC neighbourhood has had slightly lower vaccine coverage than neighbouring Lower Mainland regions recently.
At this time, the BC Ministry of Health has not declared an outbreak at UBC, nor has it reinstated COVID-19 restrictions as has been the case in the Central Okanagan. However, mask wearing and caution are recommended for anyone not yet fully vaccinated.
The BCCDC and Vancouver Coastal Health have not yet been reached for comment.
This is a developing story and may be updated as more details become available.