B.C.’s top doctor says COVID-19 limit on large gatherings under review

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — B.C.’s top doctor is open to expanding her 50-person limit on gatherings, but only in places where the risk of COVID-19 is low.

Re: lifting 50-person max in spaces which can accommodate 2-metre distancing orders, Henry says that’s all under review and it may be possible for restaurants or other businesses that depend on larger numbers to expand, but no date mentioned as to when? #COVID19 #bcpoli @NEWS1130

— Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) June 9, 2020

On Tuesday, Dr. Bonnie Henry said restrictions are under review as we mark four days without a death, but lifting restrictions is all a balancing act.

“We are running the risk of more cases and more outbreaks. You know, very recently in Germany, there was a church gathering where they were supposedly maintaining their safe distance, and 107 of the congregants became ill, and three people died.”

Henry also said when thinking about lifting restrictions for large venues, recognizing the potential risk of transmission is essential.

“It’s not about trying to punish businesses. It’s trying to find ways that we can safely enjoy restaurants, go to retail stores [and] safely visit our loved ones in care homes.”

The same thought is also going into potentially easing restrictions for swimming pools where people are able to stay at least two metres apart.

Re: swimming pools, Henry suggests they could re-open in the coming weeks as long as safe distance rules are followed.
Briefing has ended.
Next live update will be Thursday.

— Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) June 9, 2020

Henry says that, while the virus can not be transmitted in chlorinated water or salt waters, reopening pools can be risky if people don’t physically distance from the pool or locker room.

“There will need to be measured in place to reduce numbers, that we’re not having close contact with people in the locker room. I think that’s something that we can look forward to in the coming weeks.”