The B.C. government is fixing a proof of vaccine loophole involving 12 year olds.
The government announced Friday 12 year olds now only need one dose of the vaccine to be allowed into settings where proof of vaccination is required.
"It has been reported to public health that 11-year-olds who have had one dose of pediatric vaccine and are able to enter these settings are then blocked from entry when they turn 12 because they only have one dose of vaccine and have not had time to get a second dose," says a news release from the B.C. Ministry of Health.
The change is designed to make it fair for this age group, while they are waiting for the recommended time to receive their second dose.
As previously announced, the provincial health officer order on gatherings and events is being updated to remove the prohibition on individual or group fitness, exercise and dance exercise, allowing these to happen with the safety requirements in place. This change took effect on Jan. 20, 2022.
The order also allows sports tournaments for children and youth starting Feb. 1, 2022, but adult sports tournaments remain prohibited.