It was a daily occurrence during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but these days a public update from BC’s provincial health officer and minister of health is more rare.

Dr. Bonnie Henry and Adrian Dix provided a provincial update today as respiratory season winds to a close and it came with a significant update to restrictions.

While most restrictions are long gone, a pair that have stuck around were lifted today.

There are no longer visitor restrictions in long-term care, assisted living or other healthcare facilities.

That means proof of vaccination and rapid antigen testing is no longer required to enter these settings.

In addition, universal mask-wearing by all staff and visitors in health-care facilities is no longer mandatory.

Photo Credit: Government of BC

“These changes signify a step forward in returning to pre-pandemic operations in long-term care, assisted living, and health-care facilities while continuing to maintain a safe environment for all,” Henry explained.  

“However, there will still be some situations where masks will be required in health-care settings or situations where they have always been required to protect high-risk patients against respiratory transmitted infections and protect workers against high-risk exposure to infectious diseases.”

One restriction that will not be lifted is the requirement for all health-care system workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Henry said that will remain in place “to protect patients and health-care workers and ensure the resilience of the health-care system.”

The PHO also noted that BC’s spring booster vaccine program has begun this week to provide a “boost of immunity” for people at the highest risk of severe illness or hospitalization.

“The new booster will help to maintain and lengthen protection against severe outcomes of COVID-19, especially hospitalization and death,” she said.

“We also continue to encourage everyone six months and older to get immunized with a primary series and, if eligible, a booster dose, including anyone 18 and over who has not yet received a bivalent booster dose.”

Appointments can be made by going to the Get Vaccinated website or by phoning 1-883-838-2323.