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Dec 17, 2021 10:40 PM - The Canadian Press

B.C. implementing restrictions as Omicron cases rise

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B.C.'s provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry during a press conference in Victoria. (B.C. Govt.)

British Columbia is placing restrictions on events and gatherings until the end of January in an effort to limit the fast-spreading COVID-19 Omicron variant.

Measures range from limits on venues that hold more than 1,000 people to 50 per cent capacity to no amateur sports tournaments over the Christmas period and the cancellation of all New Year's Eve parties.

The Health Ministry says indoor gatherings, including those at rental or holiday properties, are also being limited to one household, plus 10 guests, and everyone must be vaccinated.

The B.C. Vaccine card program must be used at all events and people will not be allowed to move between tables at restaurants.

The restrictions will start Monday and last until Jan. 31.

B.C. reported 753 cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, more than doubling the number of new cases reported a week ago.

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