Premier Scott Moe (980 CJME file photo)

By CKOM News

Sask. to lift COVID measures by end of February; proof of vax ending Monday

Feb 8, 2022 | 11:19 AM

Saskatchewan is set to remove its COVID-related public health measures in the coming days, with proof of vaccination or a negative test going first.

Other public health measures — including masking in indoor public places — are to remain in place until the end of February, when they too are to be lifted.

In a media release Tuesday, the government said the proof of vaccination/proof of negative test to gain access to Saskatchewan businesses, workplaces and other public venues will end next Monday at 12:01 a.m.

eHealth Saskatchewan will continue to make proof of vaccination records and QR codes available to Saskatchewan residents for use such as travel or in other jurisdictions.

“Proof of vaccination has been an effective policy, but its effectiveness has run its course,” Premier Scott Moe said in the release. “The benefits no longer outweigh the costs.

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“It’s time to heal the divisions over vaccination in our families, in our communities and in our province. It’s time for proof of vaccination requirements to end.”

Case numbers, hospitalizations and the active case total all were trending down before the government stopped posting daily COVID updates on its website this week. That also no doubt played a role in the province’s decision to start lifting restrictions.

However, Moe encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to take steps needed to keep themselves and others safe.

“As we shift to living with COVID-19, there is a continuing need for personal responsibility for self-monitoring, self-testing and self-management,” Moe said. “It will be important for individuals to assess their own risk and comfort levels, and to take appropriate action if they are unwell.”

Booster shots

The government also announced booster shots are available effective immediately for all Saskatchewan residents between the ages of 12 and 17.

The Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA booster will be offered at least five months after an individual gets their second shot.

Previously, boosters for that age group were available only for teens who are immunocompromised or have other health conditions. They could get their booster three months after getting their second shot.