There were 624 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. over the last 24 hours, for a total of 45,400 since the start of the pandemic.

Of those, 60 were in the Interior Health region, according to a joint statement issued today, Dec. 18, by provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Minister of Health Adrian Dix. The Interior Heath region has 788 active cases with 31 people in hospital, nine of whom are in intensive care.

There have been 11 new deaths in B.C., so 724 people have now died from the virus to date. Ten of those deaths were in the Interior Health region.

Today also marks the last day of school for B.C. students.

“There are many ways for young people to enjoy this special time of year” the statement reads. "Take a nighttime walk in your neighbourhood to look at local light displays. Consider dropping off baked goods or homemade gifts or cards to neighbours or those in long-term care to brighten someone else's day.”

It is also just a week away from Christmas.

"Many of us will also be shopping in our local communities for last-minute gifts,” the statement reads. “We encourage everyone to be patient and kind to your fellow shoppers and to use your layers of protection to keep you, and those around you, safe.”

Of the new cases, 406 were in the Fraser Health region, 106 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, five in the Vancouver Island Health region and 47 in the Northern health region.

There are 9,978 active cases and 10,211 people being monitored with 356 people in hospital of whom 92 are in intensive care.

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