Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says B.C. is on the right course as less than 400 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed on Thursday, May 20. (flickr/Gov't of B.C.)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

covid-19 update

B.C. back to pre-third wave COVID-19 situation, re-open plan expected on Tuesday

May 20, 2021 | 2:43 PM

NANAIMO — The province has returned to where it was before the devastating third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced 357 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, May 20. The number of active cases at 4,636 is the lowest since March 1, down from the high of nearly 10,000 in early April.

The rolling seven-day average across the province fell below 450, the lowest since mid-February.

There are currently 331 people in hospital, with 113 people receiving intensive care.

Island Health saw 10 new COVID-19 cases. Three were found in the central Vancouver Island area, where active cases dropped by two to 53.

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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.

“I know it has been tough but there’s a light ahead and it’s coming soon,” Dr. Henry said. “We need to stay the course. Now is not the time to let up as we’re doing so well and getting so far ahead.”

A further 54,500 people received their first dose of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours. Based on the current trajectory, every eligible B.C. resident who wants a vaccine will have it before Canada Day, possibly by mid-June.

Dr. Henry said any youth between 12 and 17-years-old accompanying their parents to a vaccine appointment can receive their shot then. Youth are also encouraged to register online as all other age groups have.

It’s expected the Moderna vaccine will be approved for those under 17, Dr. Henry said. Currently only Pfizer is available for youth.

Premier John Horgan, during Thursday’s media availability, said the circuit breaker restrictions limiting travel will be lifted on Tuesday after the May long weekend.

The economic re-open plan is expected to be unveiled on Tuesday.

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