B.C. records 45 new cases of COVID-19 and no new deaths

B.C. health officials announced 45 new cases of COVID-19 and no new deaths on Friday.

In a written statement, the provincesaid there are currently 661 active cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus in B.C.

A total of 73 people are in hospital, with19in intensive care.

As of Friday, 79.7 per centof all eligible adults in B.C. and 78.6 per centof those 12 and older have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

In addition, 44.2 per centof all eligible adults in B.C. and 41.3 per centof those 12 and older have received their second dose.

Long-term care restrictions lifting

Residents in B.C.'s long-term care facilities will soon be allowed to visit with friends and family members without restrictions, provided they are fully vaccinated.

StartingJuly 19,visitors will no longer need to schedulevisits in advance. There will also no longer be a limit on the number of visitors each resident can have.

Visitation is being expanded because of the significant success of the province's COVID-19 immunization program, Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said Thursday at a news conference.

"This is an important day, it reflects the progress we're making," Dix said.

Health officials have stressed the importance of vaccinations as activity levels increase for all British Columbians.

Anyone who has not yet registered for a vaccine in B.C. can do so in the following ways:

• Online through theGet Vaccinated portal.
• By calling 1-833-838-2323. Translators are available in 140 languages.
• In person at anyService B.C. location.

The province is currently in Step 3of a four-step reopening plan that aims to lift virtually all remaining COVID-19 restrictions by September.