(Image Credit: Kent Simmonds / CFJC Today)

By Dylana Kneeshaw

COVID-19 PREVENTION

Officials stress social distancing in latest round of COVID-19 updates

Mar 23, 2020 | 5:10 PM

KAMLOOPS — As more facility closures and tighter restrictions are brought in to reduce potential virus spreading, the B.C. government and health officials have been adamant that people need to keep their distance.

The regular updates from Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix have all had a key message around social distancing.

In today’s latest briefing (Mar. 23), Dr. Henry said they are aware of people who are choosing not to adhere to this practice, but many people are getting the message.

“For the most part, despite what we’ve been seeing on social media and some of the concerns that are expressed, people are doing their part.”

Recently, gathering sizes have been limited to no more than 50 people. Bars have closed, personal services such as spas, and massage and tattoo shops have shut their doors, and take-out and delivery options are being offered by restaurants who no longer offer dine-in service.

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“In trying to put in place measures to physically distance people, and ensure we’re doing everything we can to slow down, and stop the transmission of this virus in our communities,” stated Henry.

In Kamloops, more precautionary action was taken with the closure of city playground structures. Fields and parks remain open, but kids won’t be climbing on the communal play equipment after Monday.

In a YouTube address to the city, Mayor Ken Christian says the play structure decision is part of what needs to be done to prevent the spread of germs.

“We’re just unable to keep them clean to the level that we feel would be safe,” he explains. “So that will include Riverside Park, Campbell Creek, Brock, Westmount, Albert McGowan, Stuart Wood, the Tournament Capital Ranch, as well as McArthur Island.”

With the city under a state of local emergency, the number of people normally seen in higher traffic areas has drastically decreased. CFJC Today crews took a walk through downtown Kamloops this afternoon during the usual lunch hour, and one woman in the area noted that it was highly unusual to see so few passersby.

“It’s very crazy. The town is dead. Nobody is out and about.”

Few vehicles were parked along Victoria Street, and another man told CFJC Today seeing the social distancing being practiced was a relief.

“This is a really serious situation right now, and we need to mind our gap and have that social distance. And the more things you can do at home, the better.”

The COVID-19 pandemic is a quickly developing situation, so there’s been no exact date set for how long these measures will be in place. So far, Ken Christian and other officials have kept firm to the message — stay home and socially distance.

Christian notes in his latest video that the idea needs to take hold in the minds of young people especially, who may find it difficult to stay away from one another during this time.

“It’s important for you and your family and our community that you avoid gatherings. Stay six feet apart and don’t congregate. We are not going to be able to beat this thing if people disregard social distancing rules.”

WATCH: Mayor Ken Christian’s March 23 address on COVID-19 (Video Credit: City of Kamloops)