Outbreak in Kelowna forces about 1,000 people into self-isolation

A jump in COVID-19 infections in British Columbia has prompted a tightening of restrictions by health officials for bars and nightclubs in the province.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says the rise in cases, including 34 more today, is a wake up call that residents need to pay more attention in areas where transmission is spread.

The amended health order prohibits liquor self service and dance floors, and says all patrons of bars and clubs must be in designated seats and measures must be in place to reduce lineups.

Henry says about 1,000 people are in self-isolation after being in close contact with those who tested positive in the outbreak in Kelowna.

Health officials have said many of the infections that started in Kelowna and spread through the province were related to private parties.

So far, 3,362 people have tested positive for COVID-19, while 2,888 have fully recovered and there have been no new deaths.