Keep that mask on – the flu is hanging around longer than usual

Based on the latest influenza data gathered by the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), there is still a high level of influenza activity in the community, resulting in a high number of outbreaks, and more visits to emergency departments than previous years. The Provincial Health Officer has indicated that the Health Care Worker (HCW) influenza prevention policy will continue to be in effect until influenza activity subsides.

The policy will remain in effect until the season is officially declared over by the Provincial Health Officer. This means that all healthcare workers, staff,  physicians, contractors, volunteers and students working at all VCH sites are required to be immunized, or wear a surgical mask while working in patient care areas until further notice. This policy also applies to visitors visiting all patient care areas in hospitals, residential care homes and other health facilities.

The Provincial Health Officer will continue to monitor the influenza activity level with BCCDC and medical health officers to determine the official end date of the 2017/18 influenza season. We will let you know as soon as a date has been confirmed.

It’s not too late to get a flu shot – check out Immunize BC’s map to locate a clinic near you. Be sure to call ahead to ensure the vaccine is still in stock.

For more information about the flu visit the VCH staff flu webpage.