Canadians advised to back off international travel plans

Canadians are being advised to avoid all non-essential international travel due to the rapidly spreading Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said now is not the time to travel, and travellers could get COVID-19 or get stranded abroad.

The federal government is also going to send shipments of booster doses and rapid tests to provinces and territories to quickly ramp up vaccination campaigns.

As of Tuesday, British Columbia had 44 confirmed Omicron cases with three cases in Interior Health.

Premier John Horgan issued the following statement following today’s federal travel advisory:

“I urge British Columbians to follow the federal government’s advice to avoid non-essential travel outside the country. As the highly transmissible Omicron variant spreads worldwide, this is not a time to take chances,” said Horgan.

“While this advice undoubtedly disrupts many holiday plans, a fast-changing and unpredictable situation demands we act with caution and prudence. Avoid non-essential travel and follow public health guidelines. Plan your vaccinations and booster shots. As we enjoy the holiday season, remember to follow health guidelines and exercise caution. We will get through this so we can once again enjoy all the holiday traditions,” the premier said.