BC Has Quietly Changed Its COVID-19 Restrictions & Now There's No End Date For Closures

COVID-19 restrictions in B.C. just quietly changed, and now there is no end date to the current closures and limitations.

There are currently restrictions that limit gatherings and prevent gyms, nightclubs, and bars from opening. Previously, the public health order said that these restrictions would be in place until January 18.

However, on January 17, the government quietly changed the order which now states: "This Order does not have an expiration date."

Without this expiry date, it is unclear when these restrictions will be lifted.

Under the current restrictions in the province, a household is able to gather with up to 10 other people or with one other household. Indoor venues have a maximum capacity requirement of 50%, and there is a maximum of six people allowed at a table.

B.C.'s Health Minister Adrian Dix tweeted about the change of restrictions on Monday.

While the change to the health order came without a formal announcement to the public, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is updating the public about the new changes at 1.30 p.m. PT on Tuesday, January 18.

The order was originally put in place as Omicron cases surged in the province, aimed at curbing the impact of the variant.

In response to the restrictions, some gyms have even refused to comply, by keeping their doors open. One gym owner in B.C., who runs Iron Energy Gym, argued on Facebook that gyms are essential.