By Canadian Press

Fast-moving Omicron variant prompts additional COVID-19 measures in B.C.: ministry

Dec 21, 2021 | 7:41 AM

VICTORIA — More health measures could be coming in British Columbia one day after restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 took effect.

Health Minister Adrian Dix, Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth and provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry are set to provide another update this afternoon on COVID-19.

The Ministry of Health has reported 2,550 new cases between Friday and Sunday, pushing the total number of active infections to 5,435 — a leap of 2,486 cases in one week.

The ministry says public health is monitoring the increase as well as developments in other areas, and will outline additional measures.

Restrictions that took effect yesterday limit the size of indoor personal gatherings, cap audience numbers in large venues and prohibit most New Year’s Eve parties amid growing concerns that patients with the Omicron variant could overwhelm hospitals.

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Dix and Henry are also expected to announce changes to the province’s rapid testing policy.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 21, 2021.

The Canadian Press