The leaves are turning and the days are getting shorter and unfortunately this looks like a very busy year for respiratory viruses.  As we head into October, a friendly reminder that several communicable diseases like Influenza, MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome – Coronavirus), and Enterovirus D68 (primarily affecting those less than 20 yrs of age) are circulating in our communities.

Current outbreaks

We maintain a list of current outbreaks on the public website, VCH.ca.

We need your help to stop the spread

Not only are we focusing on preventing the transmission of respiratory illnesses, but we remind everyone that Norovirus will also peak during the fall and winter months. Isolate your patients early and contact Infection Prevention and Control  or the Medical Microbiologist on call if you have a suspicious case.

We need everyone’s assistance to minimize exposures and prevent transmission of these communicable viruses.

4 simple steps to prevent the spread of respiratory illness

1. Wash your hands – Hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the transmission of many respiratory viruses including influenza and Norovirus. You must use soap and water to clean your hands after caring for people with Norovirus.
2. Don’t come to work if you are sick – For noro/GI illness, do not return to work until 48 hours after the last session of vomiting or diarrhea. For Influenza-like illness, stay off work until you feel better and symptoms have resolved (eg. fever, fatigue, cough etc). Don’t forget to call the Absence Call Line (within Vancouver 604-639-4297 or toll-free 1-866-924-4297) .
3. Get the flu shot – Vaccinations are being offered through Workplace Health and via the Peer Nurse Immunizer Program.  Next week we’ll be announcing all the staff flu clinics, so stay tuned here on VCH News for more options to get immunized. In addition, vaccinations can also be obtained from your own health care provider and at many Community Health Centres, visit immunizebc.ca for flu clinics in your area.
4. Say NORO to sharing unwrapped goodies – Do not share food items. In particular, food items are not to be consumed in clinical areas (e.g. medication carts, medication rooms, clean or soiled utility rooms).  If group activities are planned, food items must be individually wrapped.