B.C. ready to vaccinate thousands of children when Health Canada gives OK: top doctor

VANCOUVER — British Columbia’s top doctor has issued an order requiring children five and older to wear masks in public spaces, expanding a mandate for those aged 12 and up.

Dr. Bonnie Henry says the province is also preparing to vaccinate about 340,000 kids up to age 11 pending Health Canada approval as early as next month, with priority given to those in the northern region, where COVID-19 transmission rates are highest due to lower vaccine uptake.

Henry says the rapid spread of COVID-19 in the north is causing serious illness, including among younger residents, as hospitals are “pushed to the limit.”

She says public health officials are working with the Northern Health authority to determine if more regional measures are needed to prevent transmission.