B.C. declares end to COVID-19 public health emergency

British Columbia’s top doctor, Dr. Bonnie Henry, has announced the end of the public health emergency declared in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision comes after four years of mask mandates, gathering restrictions, vaccinations, and hospitalizations.

End of restrictions

• Dr. Henry has stated that all remaining restrictions, including the vaccination requirement for health-care workers, are being rescinded.
• She expressed confidence that the province has reached a point where the public health emergency is no longer necessary.
• “I remain immensely grateful to the people of B.C. who have risen to the occasion and did their best to support each other with kindness and compassion throughout these most challenging times,” said Dr. Henry.

Immunization status disclosure

• It is now mandatory for health-care workers, doctors, nurses, volunteers, and contractors in public health-care facilities to disclose their immunization status, including COVID-19, influenza, and measles vaccines.
• Health Minister Adrian Dix mentioned that this information would help health authorities make staffing decisions in the event of future outbreaks or exposures.
• “Health-care workers are strong supporters of vaccination, and the vast majority have stepped up to get immunized and keep themselves and those they care for safe,” said Minister Dix.

Historical context

The public health emergency was initially declared on March 17, 2020. British Columbia was the first province in Canada to record a COVID-19 death.

Following the emergency declaration:

• Mask mandates were implemented.
• Public gatherings and events were canceled.
• Businesses shut down.
• Many people transitioned to working from home.

Health orders and reinstatement

• Dr. Henry first imposed orders on all workers in B.C. health-care settings in October 2021, with renewals in 2022 and 2023.
• On April 8, 2024, the government lifted its requirement that medical masks be worn in health care settings.
• On Friday, Health Minister Adrian Dix announced that health workers previously fired due to these orders could apply to fill available positions, provided they disclose their immune status for certain pathogens, including COVID-19.

This significant milestone marks a new phase in B.C.’s response to COVID-19, reflecting the province’s progress and resilience over the past four years.