Dix says Omicron variant upending holiday plans, health restrictions being considered

VICTORIA — Dramatically rising case counts of the Omicron COVID-19 variant in Ontario, Quebec and around the world has British Columbia Health Minister Adrian Dix warning about a “time to exercise caution.”

Dix says the province supports the federal government’s call to advise Canadians against international travel over the holiday season due to the rising threat of the Omicron variant.

He says B.C. is also considering implementing further public health orders on large and small public and private gatherings in an effort to limit the spread of the highly transmissible variant. 

Dix says he expects a decision on expanded public health orders on gatherings, which could include Vancouver Canucks games and informal private parties, to come early next week.

Ontario has introduced 50 per cent capacity limits at large sporting events, including on games played by the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

But Dix says B.C. will not follow Ontario when it comes to providing third-dose COVID-19 vaccine booster shots immediately to all residents who are 18 years and older.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 15, 2021.

The Canadian Press