Dr. Bonnie Henry has seen cases rise substantially in the last week. (flickr/Gov't of B.C.)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

covid-19 update

New COVID-19 restrictions introduced as new cases surge

Mar 29, 2021 | 1:16 PM

NANAIMO — New restrictions are being implemented across B.C. after a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on Monday, March 29 announced 2,518 new cases since Friday, which was the second worst day in B.C. during the pandemic.

“In the last six days we’ve seen the start of exponential growth in new cases, we’ve seen more hospitalizations and more people requiring critical care. The strain on our acute care system is ramping up.”

The 936 new cases discovered from Friday to Saturday is officially the worst day so far during the pandemic.

Dr. Henry also noted the increase of COVID-19 variants, particularly from the UK and Brazil. There’s currently 413 active COVID-19 variant cases.

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To reduce the number of cases, the province is now trying to implement what’s known as a “circuit breaker” for three weeks, starting at midnight on Monday.

“Gathering indoors is what’s the greatest risk for all of us right now,” Dr. Henry said.

Indoor dining is banned, though people can still eat on patios. All group fitness activites are shut down. Recently introduced amendments to allow small indoor worship services were rescinded. Students down to Grade 4 are now encouraged to wear masks while at school.

“It’s a step back from where we want to be and where we need to be. But when spikes and surges becomes a sustained trend, we need to take these steps to protect those we love and don’t know.”

Premier John Horgan spoke specifically to those in the 20-39 age range, which has seen more hospitalizations and cases in recent weeks.

“The cohort from 20-39 are not paying as much attention and quite frankly are putting the rest of us in a difficult position. Do not blow this for the rest of us,” he said.

The BC CDC said 142 cases were found within Island Health. Island Health will update data at 4 p.m. and this story will be updated.

There is a data discrepancy between Island Health and the province, based on the timing of COVID-19 results. NanaimoNewsNOW reports local verified data from Island Health.

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