Seventeen additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed within the last 24 hours.

Three of the cases were found in the Edmonton zone, while the other 14 are in Calgary. At least two of the new cases appear to have been acquired through community spread.

As such, the Government of Alberta has made new recommendations on social distancing as of 4:30 p.m. on Sunday (Mar.15). "These include the immediate cancellation of all K-12 and post-secondary classes, as well as closure of licensed child care and out of school care programs in Alberta," said Premier Jason Kenney. This includes Elk Island Public Schools, Elk Island Catholic Schools, Sturgeon Public Schools all nearby universities and day cares While classes will not be running, buildings will remain open and teachers and staff will continue working on potential alternatives for students.

Kenney also emphasized the importance of washing hands regularly for 20 seconds at a time and avoiding travel.

"Frankly, from today onwards, all non-essential travel plans should be cancelled," he added. "We're all responsible for each other's health at this time."

Places of worship have now been added to the list of restricted gatherings and all mass events with 50 people or more should be cancelled.

To help combat the rising threat of the COVID-19 pandamic, the Government of Alberta also announced a $500-million increase in their health budget.