Hand hygiene ambassadors have been at the entrances to VGH reminding staff and visitors to clean their hands and offering a “squirt” of sanitizer to show just how quick and easy it is.

‘Tis the season

We are entering the season when outbreaks of influenza and norovirus could challenge us over the coming months. Here are three things you can do to help minimize exposures and prevent transmission of these viruses:

Hand hygiene

Practice the 4-moments of hand hygiene consistently and always clean your hands when entering and leaving a health care facility. Make alcohol-based hand rubs readily available.

Catered group events

Encourage use of tongs and spoons to serve and handle all food items or, if possible, have a dedicated server. Provide hand sanitizer as above.

Gifts and prizes

All food gifts and prizes should be individually wrapped. Ask guests or recipients to enjoy their gift or prize at home. For teams, give boxes or tins that contain individually wrapped items.

Mask or vaccination

As of December 1, all health authority employees in BC who work in a patient/client care area, are required to be vaccinated for influenza or where a mask.