British Columbia has announced a public health emergency due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Government officials made the announcement Tuesday after announcing 83 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C.
and three new deaths. Health Minister Adrian Dix said it’s the second time such a declaration has been put into effect. The province declared the overdose crisis a public health emergency in 2016.
That declaration is still in effect. “In practical terms, it means that the provincial health officer can issue verbal orders… with immediate effect,” Dix explained Tuesday.
As an example, Dix cited Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry’s order to close all bars and clubs in B.C. effective immediately.