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Dec 31, 2020 1:32 AM -

B.C. restricting alcohol sales, service on New Year's Eve; 485 new COVID-19 cases and 11 deaths reported in B.C.

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File - Dr. Bonnie Henry can be seen replying to questions during a news conference. (B.C. Government)

Health officials in British Columbia are cutting off alcohol sales on New Year's Eve in an effort to prevent gatherings where COVID-19 can spread.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says last call for alcohol sales will be at 8 p.m. on New Year's Eve and the ban continues until 9 a.m. the next day.

The health order restricts the sale of alcohol at restaurants, pubs and stores.

Dr. Henry says the order is an attempt to mitigate "risky behavior" and curb parties from springing up, particularly in resort towns where New Year's Eve celebrations are common.

B.C. reported 485 new cases of COVID-19 today and 11 additional deaths.

The Fraser Health authority has also declared COVID-19 outbreaks at Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cedar Hill residence long-term care centre at Langley Memorial Hospital.

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