The B.C. government announced sweeping changes to the coronavirus health orders on Tuesday (Feb.15)—but not all of the restrictions will be lifted this week.
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry noted that there will be an "incremental easing" of restrictions starting on Feb.16 but that some of them will remain in place.
The provincial health order on face masks in indoor public spaces will remain in place. This rule applies to malls, retail stores, public transportation, libraries, schools, common areas of fitness centres and several other places.
The BC Vaccine Card program will also remain in place to mitigate risk in public indoor settings. Restaurants, cafes and pubs must scan proof of vaccination QR codes for entry.
Indoor seating events are also returning to full capacity but the BC Vaccine Card program will be in place with face masks.
B.C. businesses must continue to have a COVID-19 safety plan in place. The plan includes employees working from home when possible, practicing physical distancing, and keeping staff separate from customers. The order is specific to industry and businesses and does not apply to child care, K-12 schools or post-secondary education.
These protective measures will remain in place and will be reviewed on Mar. 15 and again on Apr. 12, Henry said.
But the health officer noted that some public health measures may need to continue for years to come. For instance, staying home when you're sick or wearing face masks in high-risk indoor settings.
Long-term care visitation restrictions, K-12 and child care guidelines, faith community guidelines, restrictions on child and youth overnight camps, and the industrial camps order will also remain in place. Find out more information about these restrictions with the B.C. government online.
Incremental easing of restrictions and orders will commence in mid-February, with the remaining COVID-19 public health measures reviewed in mid-March and mid-April.
Find out everything you need to know about B.C.'s new rules on gatherings and events and restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
