THE Province said on Monday that the BC Vaccine Card was now in effect throughout British Columbia, bringing people together to enjoy certain businesses and recreational events safely.
Starting September 13, new COVID-19 vaccine requirements will apply so businesses can stay open and people can feel safe in these settings, while vaccination rates continue to rise.
“Today’s implementation of the BC Vaccine Card is a vital achievement in our B.C. pandemic,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “It says we have vaccines to fight COVID-19, that we are getting our vaccines to stop the spread, and that we can have confidence in attending certain events and activities knowing that those around us are vaccinated, too.”
Businesses can now download the BC Vaccine Card Verifier App from the Google Play and Apple App stores and use the app to verify customers BC Vaccine Card, or visually verify the person’s proof of vaccination. A government-issued photo is required for those 19+.
Information for businesses and a toolkit can be found online:Â gov.bc.ca/VaccineCard-
The Provincial Call Centre now has a dedicated line for businesses to call with their questions on the BC Vaccine Card. They can call 1 833 838-2323, select option 1, then option 3. Be patient if you call the call centre, as staff work through the call volumes. A business package is available on the provincial vaccine website.
People can get their BC Vaccine Card online: gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard and keep a digital copy on their mobile device by taking a screen shot or printing a hard copy to present when entering designated businesses and events.
The BC Vaccine Card includes a secure individualized QR code and image showing either “vaccinated” or “partially vaccinated.” People are required to have received at least one dose of their COVID-19 vaccine, and both doses by October 24.
“With the BC Vaccine Card, we will be able to do more of the things we love that much more safely,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer. “Public health will continue to monitor the outcomes of the program, and our hope is that we will be able to remove capacity limits and other restrictions, thanks to the protection offered through the BC Vaccine Card.”
Since the BC Vaccine Card was announced on September 7, more than 2.2 million people have obtained their cards.
This new requirement is in effect through orders of the provincial health officer.
Learn More:
To learn more about the vaccine card and how to access yours, visit:Â gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard
Information for businesses, including step-by-step instructions can be found online: http://www.gov.bc.ca/
