Dr. Bonnie Henry ends mask mandate at B.C. hospitals, health-care facilities

CHILLIWACK — Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer, announced Thursday (Apr. 6) that previous restrictions instituted by her office will be lifted.

In a statement from the provincial government, universal mask-wearing by all staff and visitors in health-care facilities is no longer mandatory effective Thursday, April 6.

“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,” Dr. Henry said. “As we approach the next respiratory season, we will be prepared to consider measures that may be necessary to ensure the safe functioning of our health-care system, including potentially reinstating some of the current measures.”

Further, visitor restrictions in long-term care, assisted living, and health-care facilities have been lifted. This includes the requirement for proof of vaccination to enter long-term care, assisted living, and health-care facilities, which is no longer in effect. Rapid antigen testing in long-term care is no longer required.