Health officer Bonnie Henry brought in wide-ranging measures to control the spread of COVID-19 in November, which include restricting social gatherings to household members only and mandatory masks for indoor public spaces. The gathering order has now been extended through to Jan. 8, 2021, at midnight. This includes gatherings in people’s homes and in public venues.
The same requirements and exemptions from the previously published orders continue to apply, with one new change: drive-through and drive-in to drop off people and leave events, as well as drive-in and “stay in your car” events to a maximum of 50 vehicles is now allowed.
Henry said she is also strongly recommending against any travel other than what is essential for work or medical care.
“We understand that, for many of us, this will mean celebrating the important December holidays in a different, smaller way than what we are used to. We can still be festive, but let’s ensure it is only with our immediate household,” she said. “As hard as this may be, let’s remember that the sacrifices we make now will protect our loved ones and countless others throughout our province. Your efforts and sacrifices are making a difference.”
The extension, which was made Dec. 7, comes as the province reported 2,020 new COVID-19 cases over a three-day period. There have been 527 deaths from coronavirus in British Columbia so far.
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