BC Has Quietly Changed Its COVID-19 Restrictions & Now There's No End Date For Closures
COVID-19 restrictions in B.C. just changed, and now there is no end date to the current closures and limitations.
There are currently restrictions that limit gatherings and prevent gyms, nightclubs, and bars from opening. Previously, the public health order said that these restrictions would be in place until January 18.
However, on January 17, the government changed the order, which now states: "This Order does not have an expiration date."
Without this expiry date, it is unclear when these restrictions will be lifted.
Under the current restrictions in the province, a household is able to gather with up to 10 other people or with one other household. Indoor venues have a maximum capacity requirement of 50%, and there is a maximum of six people allowed at a table.
B.C.'s Health Minister Adrian Dix tweeted about the change to restrictions on Monday.
The previous December 22nd orders had end dates of 12:01 am, Tuesday, January 18.\u00a0 Dr. Henry will be providing an update on the new orders on Tuesday, January 18 \u2013 this updated order was made to ensure the order remained in place until Dr. Henry spoke about them on Tuesday.— Adrian Dix (@Adrian Dix) 1642465348
While the change to the health order came without a formal announcement to the public, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry will be updating the public about the new changes in a news conference at 1.30 p.m. PT on Tuesday.
Dr. Henry repeatedly stated at Friday's briefing that she would be up-dating everyone on Provincial Health Orders at the briefing on Tuesday.— Adrian Dix (@Adrian Dix) 1642466456
The order was originally put in place as COVID-19 cases surged in the province, aimed at curbing the impact of the Omicron variant.
Some businesses have refused to comply with the restrictions by keeping their doors open. Iron Energy Gym in West Kelowna said earlier this month that they will not be closing their doors, arguing that gyms are essential.
This article's right-hand cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
