Nearly 75 per cent of eligible Yukoners have now received their first vaccine shot and 65 per cent have received both doses. The strong uptake will allow Yukon to lift COVID-19 restrictions starting later this month.
Today Premier Sandy Silver announced plans to ease travel restrictions in the coming weeks. Beginning Tuesday, May 25, people arriving in Yukon from anywhere in Canada will not have to self-isolate if they are fully vaccinated, provided their vaccination status can be confirmed.
Additionally, Yukon bars and restaurants will be able to return to 100 per cent capacity with no physical distancing between tables for seated service only as of May 25.
We know how much Yukoners have given up over the past 14 months and how many events they might have missed. Today I spoke with Chiefs and Mayors across the territory about our plans to lift restrictions in the coming weeks in a safe and coordinated manner. With our strong vaccine uptake, we are able to remove the self-isolation requirement for those who are fully vaccinated. We will have more details to share leading up to May 25th but hope this will also encourage those who are still considering receiving the vaccine to take action.
Premier Sandy Silver
We carefully weigh many considerations when recommending any lifting of restrictions. More and more Yukoners are stepping up for vaccine, and Canadians are rapidly catching up. COVID-19 vaccines are proving to be extremely effective, allowing us to proceed confidently with this momentous step.
Yukon’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Brendan Hanley
Children and youth will not be included in this exemption until they are able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
As of May 3, Yukon’s vaccination rate for eligible adults is at 65 per cent for both shots and 74 per cent for first doses.
Any traveller arriving from within Canada who is fully vaccinated with a Health Canada-approved vaccine will not have to self-isolate provided their vaccination status can be confirmed.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Patricia Living
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-335-1531
patricia.living@yukon.ca