Restrictions lifted in long-term, assisted living and health care facilities

Apr 6, 2023 | 2:10 PM

Fewer respiratory viruses in B.C. have allowed health officials to lift restrictions in long-term care, assisted living and health care facilities, effective immediately.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, says the requirement for proof of vaccination to enter those facilities is no longer in effect, and universal mask wearing by all staff and visitors in health care facilities is no longer mandatory.

“At this time, we have seen a decrease in all respiratory viruses, which allows us to move forward with confidence in removing some of the measures that were in place, Henry said. “This is a positive development that reflects the efforts of everyone in our community in following guidelines and taking precautions to keep each other safe.”

Rapid antigen testing in long-term care is also no longer required.

Henry stated the 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.

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She noted 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 and workers.

“It’s important to recognize that COVID-19 is still with us, and as such, we must remain vigilant and continue surveillance to monitor the situation,” Henry told a news conference.

Henry also announced the spring booster COVID-19 vaccine program is now available to provide extra immunity for people at the highest risk of severe illness or hospitalization, including those over 80 and those that are immune compromised.

“The new booster will help to maintain and lengthen protection against severe outcomes of COVID-19, especially hospitalization and death,” Henry stated. “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 are available at pharmacies and public health clinics and can be made by going to the Get Vaccinated website or phoning 1 883 838-2323.

The provincial health officer is still requiring health care system workers to be vaccinated, and people that have not yet been vaccinated, are encouraged to get the primary shots.

B.C. Green deputy leader Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi said his party’s leadership is “deeply disappointed” with the removal of the mandatory mask mandate in hospitals and healthcare settings.

Gandhi said health officials have failed to acknowledge the detrimental, ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In British Columbia, we have removed all public health protective measures, restricted broad access to further vaccinations, and limited the use of available medications to treat active infections. Today, the one remaining public health order still in place, mandatory universal masking in healthcare settings, intended to protect the most vulnerable in our society, was also removed,” Gandhi said.

Gandhi concluded his statement by saying “public health should not be about false, optimistic narratives.”

by Pete McIntyre

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