Health order amended for BC bars and nightclubs operating during pandemic

Two days after Dr. Bonnie Henry said BC is in danger of explosive growth in new coronavirus cases, the health order for bars and nightclubs operating in the province has been amended.

In a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Henry stated that when it comes to these establishments all patrons must now be seated at a designated seat, there will be no liquor self-service, no dance floors, and measures need to be in place to reduce lineups, gatherings, and pressure points.

“Over the past few weeks, we’ve recognized that risks within bars and nightclubs and recent links to exposures in these locations have occurred, and as we’ve discussed we are now amending the provincial health order to put in place more restrictions, more things that will help us control those environments and make them safer,” said Henry.

• See also: 
  • Bars, indoor parties among reasons for rise in Canada’s coronavirus cases: health officials
  • BC is on the “edge” of explosive growth in coronavirus cases: Henry

On Tuesday Canada’s Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Howard Njoo cited several reasons that were the likely cause of the uptick in cases across the country, including private gatherings and the opening of bars and restaurants.

BC has reported 34 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours.