VICTORIA, B.C. – Just one day after the new health measures took effect, the B.C. government announced more changes to try and slow the spread of the Omicron variant this holiday season.
“Compliance with these restrictions is key, and it’s our collective responsibility,” said Public Safety Minister, Mike Farnworth.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Health Minister Adrian Dix, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth announced further restrictions on gatherings, food and drink establishments, clubs, gyms and seated events.
The new restrictions, according to the Province, are intended to buy time so that health officials can learn more about Omicron, and ensure more of the population has time to get a booster dose.
Public health is monitoring global trends, and the Omicron has been found to be more transmissible than the Delta variant, spreading rapidly. There is “potential for significant impacts on hospitals,” making it important to protect the healthcare system. Lastly, Omicron is reinfecting people who were previously infected with COVID-19, also infecting people who are fully vaccinated.
The following are new public health orders that will take effect on December 22nd at midnight until January 18th:
