625 new COVID-19 cases and 8 deaths reported in B.C.

British Columbia's health minister and provincial health officer urged people to look after their mental health and well-being as the province reported 625 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday.

The province also reported eight additional deaths from COVID-19, bringing the death toll to 962.

The new numbers bring the province's total number of cases since the pandemic began to 55,254, with 6,343 active cases.

Health Minister Adrian Dix and Dr. Bonnie Henry say in a statement that this time of year can be difficult for people, and COVID-19 can compound those difficulties.

The pair urged people to looked after their mental health and seek help if needed.

The province says 33,665 people have received a COVID-19 vaccine.