B.C.’s Health Minister says most British Columbians have been doing their part and social distancing from one another, while following the many other restrictions that are in place because of COVID-19.

However, Adrian Dix says it is not to late for people who have been reluctant to follow the rules to do so.

“To those who have been reluctant, or who have on occasion not followed the advice, I want to say that your neighbours and your friends and your families are counting on your to do just that,” he said on Wednesday.

“There’s a difference between self isolation and isolating yourself from the responsible action we all need to take together.”

Dix admits some of the rules like a ban on travel, and on mass gatherings are extreme. But he notes they are temporary, and that as British Columbians, we are all in the fight against COVID-19 together.

“We are asking to take part today to take not just your civic responsibility, but your responsibility and our responsibility as human beings to one another,” Dix said. “We need you to join in and we need you to do it now, today, this moment, without judgement, but we need everyone to take part.”

Both Dix and Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, say the actions people take today, will determine what the COVID-19 situation in the province looks like two weeks in the future.

“COVID-19 is a challenge and each day brings news of our shared battle. We’re learning what to do. We’re learning how to adapt and we’re learning how much we mean to one another. It’s that shared responsibility that has to continue to drive us,” Dix added.

Dix says he remains confident that by working together and supporting each other, British Columbians will get through this pandemic.