While gyms and fitness facilities have been given the green light to reopen in BC this week, other COVID-19 restrictions have been extended until at least February 16th.
During a live press conference today, Dr. Bonnie Henry first apologized for the confusion an updated public health order caused on Monday.
Restrictions were set to expire at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, so Henry said the orders were extended to give officials time to speak on the changes at today’s conference.
While most restrictions will remain in place for another month, BC health officials announced that gyms and fitness centres will be able to reopen on January 20th, as part of a phased reopening.
“Today I’m taking the cautious step of reopening gyms and exercise facilities,” said Henry.
The original provincial health order which was put in place on December 22nd will remain in place until February 16th, which include the following:
- Indoor personal gatherings, including in rental and vacation properties are now limited to one household plus 10 other individuals, or one additional household, but only if all in attendance fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated people should not be permitted
- The province requires all events of any size to scan BC Vaccine Card – the QR code must be scanned at all events
- As in the past, movement between tables at food establishments like restaurants will be restricted and masks wearing when not seated must be enforced
- Large events and concerts with over 1,000 people in attendance, such as Victoria Royals games, will operate at 50% capacity.
- All sports tournaments in BC are to be suspended
In addition, bars, lounges and nightclubs must remain closed.
“I will be extending the current restrictions on events and gatherings, through to February 16th,” added Henry.
Henry said those restriction will be reevaluated on whether or not to keep those measures in place.
