FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – As the number of new COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the province, Northern Health is urging residents of Northern B.C. to use caution.
Northern Health says it is also concerned with the upward trend and frequency of new cases and clusters within the Northern Region as 88 new cases, per population of 100,000, were confirmed between October 30 and November 12, with 36 in the Northeast, 48 in Northern Interior, and four in the Northwest.
While the measures in the lower mainland are not currently directed at the north, Northern Health says we must continue to practice safety protocols in order to avoid any localized shutdowns.
In the meantime, Northern Health is encouraging against non-essential travel and are asking people to ensure they are following all of the current orders, guidance, and advice.
COVID-19 cases are not unexpected, but our behaviours can play a role in
preventing transmission and spread by following these guidelines:
• Maintaining our social connections are important for our well-being. However,
please keep your bubble small and limited to your household and a handful
(up to six) close friends or family (your “safe six”).
• When planning your holiday gathering, please avoid travel and choose to
celebrate with individuals in your bubble.
• Physical distancing measures are especially challenging for young people. It
is important they also keep their bubble small and, as much as possible, limit
their interactions to a close group of friends from within their school cohort.
• Essential workers, such as health-care workers and teachers, play a critical
role in our communities and therefore it is imperative they also keep their
bubble small.
• Remember: The provincial health officer’s orders to household gatherings
applies province-wide. This means no more than six people from outside your
household bubble should gather in your home.
