Proof of vaccination now required for aquatics
December 23, 2021
New Public Health Order released today
Nelson, BC: As part of the new Gatherings and Events Order released by the British Columbia Provincial Health Officer (PHO) on their website today, proof of full vaccination is now required for everyone 12 years and older participating in general admission swimming and aquafit programs at Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) recreation centres. This requirement is effective as of Thursday, December 23, 2021 until further notice.
Proof of vaccination is not required by anyone 11 years and younger, or by anyone from 12 to 21 years old participating in aquatics programs for children and youth, such as swim club and swimming lessons.
Spectators of all indoor events, including parents spectating at their child’s aquatics program or spectators of swim club events, are still required to show proof of full vaccination.
Yesterday, the PHO announced new restrictions in response to surging cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant across the province, including the closure of fitness centres until January 18, 2022. The Order released today clarifies that fitness classes will also be suspended.
All time-based memberships (RDCK Active Passes) will be automatically put on hold as of December 23 until the restrictions are lifted. Guests who can show proof of full vaccination and wish to use their Active Pass to access the pool or arena should let staff know upon their next visit and the hold will be removed. Memberships may also be refunded on a pro-rated basis to December 23. Pass-holders may request a refund by calling their local recreation facility during regular customer service hours. Please allow 3-4 weeks for refunds to be completed.
Previous measures announced by the PHO remain in effect until lifted, including: the requirement for everyone 5 years and older to wear a mask in all indoor public spaces; the requirement for proof of full vaccination for many recreation programs; the limitation of indoor events to 50% seated capacity; and the recommendation to keep personal gatherings small.
To view all current Orders, visit the Orders and Notices page on the website of the Provincial Health Officer: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus.
To view an overview of all current restrictions, visit the COVID-19 information page on the BC government website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restrictions.
If there are any changes to restrictions or any new restrictions announced, information will be shared at www.rdck.ca/recreation and on RDCK Facebook pages.
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The content on this page was last updated December 22 2021 at 9:05 AM