Posted on: July 20, 2022
What is going on with COVID-19?
We are seeing an increase in hospitalized cases of COVID-19. As you know, many people are not being tested for COVID-19 anymore, so it is difficult to see what our COVID-19 rates are. So what does this mean for us and what does it mean for Island Health?
COVID-19 has evolved over time, and it has become more transmissible (easily transmitted between people) but less virulent (causes milder disease). This is good news for each of us as we can continue with our current layers of protection. It is also good news for our patients as, although we are seeing more patients with COVID-19 in hospital, they are less likely to require higher levels of care such as ICU or critical care.
What do I need to do?
Although COVID-19 does seem to be less virulent, it is still important to maintain the layers of protection that we have come to know through this pandemic; for some people COVID-19
can still be a serious disease.
Mask wearing remains in place throughout our healthcare facilities, and it is important to be familiar with the Island Health Mask Policy. Masks must be worn in all clinical areas. This includes nurses stations, collaboration areas etc.
Change your mask frequently. When you remove your mask replace it with a clean mask; it is important not to put a used mask down on a work surface and then back on your face, as this can contaminate both the surface and your face.
It is also vital that healthcare staff doff all their PPE when exiting the space or room of a patient on additional precautions. Again, the outer surface of the mask may be contaminated, as could other items of your PPE, which could contaminate you, especially if reworn in the case of a mask
Clean your hands regularly with soap and water or alcohol based hand rub. You touch many surfaces and people throughout your day, make sure that you are not moving micro-organisms from one place to the next, and including on to your lunch as you eat it.
Respect people's space. Everyone has their own comfort level as we move through this pandemic, they may also have varying risks that you don't know about. Please be respectful and don't crowd others.
We have seen cases of COVID-19 go up and down throughout the pandemic and that will likely continue – this pandemic is not over. Thank you all for everything you do.