EMO News Release - September 8

BC has implemented rules requiring residents to provide proof of vaccination through a new BC vaccine card to access non-essential businesses and events.

• Beginning September 13, BC residents 12 years and older will be required to provide proof of at least one dose of vaccine
• By October 24, only fully vaccinated people will be permitted entry (fully vaccinated seven days after dose 2).
• This requirement is in place until January 31, 2022, subject to possible extension.

The BC Government website provides detailed information about the vaccine card system and how to download the card. A digital version may be saved to your phone or tablet or a copy can be printed to carry in your wallet. Both options will be accepted. The website also provides an option to order a paper copy by phone 1 833 838-2323 (open daily, 7 am to 7 pm).

Every BC vaccine card comes with a unique QR code. BC is using the SMART Health Card QR code format, a requirement of the federal government. This means the QR code only stores the absolute minimum level of information and is not connected to other health records. The registration system became live yesterday and residents are advised there will be wait times.

To obtain the BC vaccine card, you will be required to provide date of birth, personal health number and the date you received vaccine dose 1 or dose 2.

Vaccine card transition period to September 26
The use of the BC vaccine card will be phased in to allow people extra time to transition to their new cards. Until September 26, people will also be able to use the vaccination records they received at BC vaccine clinics or pharmacies as valid proof of vaccination. Starting September 27, only the BC vaccine card will be accepted as proof of vaccination.

Where will you use the BC vaccine card?
BC’s provincial health officer has indicated the vaccine card will be required to enter:

• Indoor ticketed concerts, theatre, dance, symphony and sporting events
• Licensed restaurants and restaurants that offer table service (indoor and patio dining)
• Pubs, bars and lounges (indoor and patio dining)
• Indoor and outdoor dining at restaurants, pubs and bars
• Nightclubs, casinos and movie theatres
• Gyms, exercise facilities/studios, pools and recreational facilities
• Businesses offering indoor group exercise
• Indoor adult group and team sports for people 22 years old or older
• Indoor organized gatherings with 50 or more such as weddings, parties, conferences, and workshops
• Indoor organized group recreational classes and activities like pottery, art and choir
• Post-secondary on-campus student housing

Under the new policy, proof of vaccination will not be required to access places providing essential services, such as grocery stores, transit, pharmacies, and medical facilities. Proof of vaccination is NOT required to vote in-person in the September 20 federal election or at advance polling places.

Is anyone exempt from providing proof of vaccination?
When it comes to providing proof of vaccination, the only exemptions are for children under the age of 12 who are not currently eligible to be vaccinated. Those who have not been vaccinated due to medical reasons, or any other reason, will not be exempt from the policy.

For information, contact:

Rob Daman
Emergency Program Coordinator, Town of Qualicum Beach
rdaman@qualicumbeach.com

Aaron Dawson
Emergency Program Coordinator, City of Parksville
adawson@parksville.ca

Deb Tardiff
Manager of Communications, City of Parksville
dtardiff@parksville.ca