WHITEHORSE – The Government of Yukon has declared a state of emergency and announced a series of public health rules aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19, including a requirement for proof of vaccination that is expected to take effect this Saturday.
Territory says it is “moving fast” to implement a proof of vaccination system for a range of settings, including restaurants, paid events, fitness facilities and personal service businesses, as well as gatherings religious and cultural.
It says the new measures also include mandatory masks in all indoor public places and outdoor public places where physical distancing is not possible, as well as capacity limits on different types of indoor and outdoor gatherings.
While the rules will be in effect from November 13, the territory said in a statement that Yukoners are “strongly encouraged” to adopt the measures immediately.
He says the top doctor in the Yukon has recommended avoiding travel between communities, and while schools may remain open, students should wear masks at their desks.
A statement from Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Catherine Elliott says the territory is seeing “a dramatic increase in the spread of COVID-19” and residents must unite now to protect the territory’s health system .
“Introducing new temporary measures will help limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the strain on our healthcare system. All Yukoners have a role to play in keeping our communities safe, ”Premier Sandy Silver said in a statement.
The statement came as the Yukon reported 80 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over a three-day period between Friday and Monday, for a total of 169 active cases.
Out of all active infections, the territory says 132 are residents of Whitehorse, 20 cases are in Carmarks and four are in Carcross, while Burwash Landing, Pelly Crossing and Teslin each have a resident with an active case of COVID- 19.
The new public health measures are expected to remain in place at least until December 3.
As of Saturday, the Yukon says personal gatherings will be limited to two households when everyone is vaccinated and one household if anyone is not vaccinated.
Organized gatherings, such as conferences and weddings, will be limited to 25 people with proof of vaccination for events held indoors, while up to 50 people can meet outdoors.
Paid events with seating, as well as religious and cultural gatherings, will be limited to 50% of the site’s capacity with proof of vaccination required.
People must also present proof of vaccination for table service in bars, restaurants and nightclubs with a limit of six people per table and no movement between tables.
In gymnasiums and fitness rooms, high intensity classes will be suspended and proof of vaccination will be required for low intensity classes and organized sports.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on November 8, 2021.
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