Medical Staff News
News
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."
Updated Pediatric Respiratory Resources for Health Care Providers In Community & Acute Care Settings
BC Children’s Hospital list of Pediatric Respiratory Resources for pediatric health care providers.
NACI Statement: Recommendations on the use of COVID-19 vaccines in Children 5 to 11 years of Age
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) issued a statement updating their language around 5-11 age group vaccines from “may be offered” to “recommended,” due to the rising number of children being hospitalized or falling ill.
Clinical guidance on COVID-19 Vaccine for people with neuromuscular conditions and autoimmune neuromuscular disorders
These BCCDC guidance documents focus on the safety of COVID-19 Vaccines for people with Significant Neuromuscular Conditions Who Require Respiratory Support and Autoimmune Neuromuscular Disorders Receiving Immunosuppressive/ Immunomodulating Therapy. Updates include Moderna will be approved shortly for children aged 6-11, information around 3rd vaccine doses and booster doses.
Pandemic Planning COVID-19 Update
The province is extending the vaccine card program to access non-essential indoor spaces, including restaurants, bars and gyms, until June 30, 2022.
ID NOW™ Rapid Testing for Direct Care Staff & Medical Staff
Island Health test sites are now equipped with ID NOW™ COVID-19 rapid tests, which will ensure health-care workers who have a shift within 24-hours can get tested and receive results quickly. ID NOW delivers high-quality molecular COVID-19 positive results in as little as 15 minutes.