Masks are optional starting tomorrow (Friday)!
Doctor Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced this afternoon (Thursday) that beginning at 12:01 a.m. Friday (March 11th), the province is lifting the mask mandate.
“With the science and our data top of mind, it clearly shows our risks now are much lower. They’re not zero, and we’re not fully out of this yet, but I feel confident that we can safely make some changes,” said Henry.
She added that some people and businesses will continue to use masks, like healthcare facilities, and that should be respected.
Lessening of COVID restrictions for the province of BC were announced today. Please note that we are required to follow Transport Canada regulations. At this time, you will still need to wear your mask while you are in the airport and for the duration of your flight. #yxs #masks
— YXS – PG Airport (@FlyYXS) March 10, 2022
“So yes, I’ll continue to wear my mask if I’m on public transit, and I would encourage others to do so too. We know it protects us, but it’s also a sign of respect and protection for others.”
In addition:
- Long-term care visitation is being restored, but each care home will have its own plan on how to approach this.
- Faith gatherings can go back to full capacity.
- the overnight child and youth camp order is also being lifted.
Starting on April 8th, the BC Vaccine Card will no longer be required.
Businesses will transition from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a communicable disease plan, and post-secondary residences will lift their vaccine requirement.
Childcare and K-12 school guidelines are also being revised.
Masks will not be required for kids in K-12 schools when they come back from Spring Break.
Regulated Health professionals will still be required to submit their vaccination status to their college, but won’t be forced to leave their field.
Instead, Henry said there will be informed consent measures for vaccination statuses in place to notify clients and patients if someone isn’t vaccinated.
Dix noted that the age limit for vaccine test kits is also being lowered.
“So those will start to be available for those aged 50-59 starting tomorrow.”
We can now safely lift more COVID-19 restrictions, starting March 11. BC Vaccine Card requirements remain in place until April. Thanks to your incredible efforts, we can now safely get back to even more of the things we love. https://t.co/8Rz6gITRYu pic.twitter.com/eicFY4bY1Q
— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) March 10, 2022
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