Dr. Henry says no need for the ``heavy hand'' of a mask mandate as respiratory illnesses climb in many areas of B.C.

Provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, says there is no need for the ``heavy hand'' of a mask mandate as respiratory illnesses climb in many areas of BC.

Dr. Henry made the comment during a news conference this morning where she noted that 90 per cent of BC residents have some COVID-19 immunity through vaccination, infection or both.

She and Health Minister Adrian Dix confirm the province is seeing an expected increase in flu cases while COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus or RSV are also becoming more common, but not at rates seen in other parts of Canada.

Henry and Dix recommend using masks at home if a family member has symptoms of a respiratory illness and say hand washing, masks in indoor public places and staying home while sick are also key ways of reducing the spread of illness, although they point to flu and COVID-19 vaccines as the most effective way to stay safe.