Story by Justin Madu
Things will not be returning to normal, but British Columbians will soon be ushering in what Premier John Horgan is calling “a new normal”.
“We will be proceeding carefully, bit by bit, one step at a time,” Horgan explained.
Importantly, all of the services and activities returning will be reintroduced alongside new rules, regulations, and protocols to ensure safety.
According to technical briefing slides provided by the Provincial Government, British Columbians could almost double the number of social contacts they have currently and still maintain flat transmission rates.
This offers the opportunity to improve economic, social, and personal well-being for those in the province.
Although restrictions are subject to change quickly, the BC Government hopes to establish a sustainable ‘new normal’ for the coming 12 to 18 months, while a vaccine is developed and deployed.
BC’s restart plan has been structured around 4 phases, with the province currently in the first phase.
Among the things anticipated to return during phase 2, which will take place from mid-May onwards:
- health services (doctors offices, physiotherapy, dentistry, chiropractors, elective surgeries, and counselling)
- the retail sector
- hair salons, barbers, and other personal services
- restaurants, pubs, and cafes
- museums, art galleries, parks and beaches
- transit
- childcare services
- office work
- small gatherings
The next phase of changes, expected to occur between June to September (provided transmission stays low) will include:
- hotels and resorts
- Select entertainment (movie theatres, small symphonies)
- post-Secondary in September with a mix of in-person and online classes
- K-12 education with only a partial return this school year in September.
Contact intensity and the number of people interacted with must be carefully balanced and modified with appropriate behaviours.
Plexiglass barriers, increased ventilation, non-medical masks, and handwashing will remain important tools moving forward.
Phase four, which will come following the invention of a vaccine, effective treatment, or in the event of widespread immunity, will reintroduce nightclubs, concerts, conventions, and sporting events with live audiences
Staying home when sick has also been emphasized as essential, with Horgan asking for “zero-tolerance” for people working when ill.
More details can be found online.
