News
COVID-19 Outbreak Management Protocol for Long-Term Care and Seniors’ Assisted Living Settings
This document provides guidance for managing COVID-19 cases and contacts during an outbreak in a long-term care (LTC) facility or seniors’ assisted living (AL) units/facilities that are located within or functionally connected to a LTC setting.
COVID-19: Viral Testing Guidelines for British Columbia
The BC COVID-19 Viral Testing guidance document has been updated to align with the new eligibility criteria for treatment of people with mild to moderate COVID-19. Included in the document is information regarding general guidance for people with new or worsening symptoms compatible with COVID-19, additional guidance for children, rapid antigen tests and more.
Updated visitation guidance for long-term care
Dr. Henry announced during her February 1st briefing updated visitation guidance for long-term care, which she hopes strikes the balance between minimizing the risk of transmission with the all important social contact needed by those in care.
Pandemic Planning COVID-19 Update
The next Pandemic Town Hall for staff and medical staff will be held at noon on Tuesday, February 1. Dial-in information and the Slido link will be shared early Tuesday morning.
Thanks to those who answered the call
Thank you to everyone who expressed interest in supporting Island Health’s immunization campaign. Whether you were scheduled to work or not, your commitment to protecting the health and safety of our communities is inspiring.
Primary Care Update
The latest guidance on vaccination, rapid testing, and treatment for COVID-19, and new resources for rural physicians.
COVID-19 Situation Report
This BCCDC report provides weekly data and refers to pandemic phases defined by population-level changes.
Medical Health Officer Newsletter No. 340
Since mid-December 2021, Omicron has been the dominant variant among COVID-19 cases in Island Health. While the number of people infected with COVID-19 has increased substantially, the proportion of those with severe disease has substantially decreased.
Thoughts on supporting ourselves and each other
The end of January is a good time to turn our attention to mental health. One high profile public campaign “ Bell Let's Talk Day” is held on January 26. This year’s theme is “Supporting ourselves and each other."