Vancouver Coastal Health

Hi everyone, we have another COVID-19 update to share for Whistler. We continue to see a sustained reduction in transmission in Whistler. From Feb 8-15, there were 56 new cases in Whistler and an additional 6 older cases were geographically identified as Whistler residents. The majority of cases continues to be among young adults who live in Whistler with transmission occurring mostly in household settings. ... We advise residents to avoid social gatherings, stay home when sick, wash their hands often and keep physical distance when in public. We ask any Whistler residents who have COVID-19-like symptoms to complete the BC COVID-19 Self Assessment tool and get a test if required: https://bit.ly/3ksaUMO We're grateful to Whistler community leaders, residents and local businesses for their ongoing support since the start of the pandemic. Take care. Full update: http://bit.ly/37ouCVh

The expanded unit at Powell River General Hospital will have six dialysis stations - double the current number - allowing up to 12 patients to receive treatment without having to travel.

COVID-19 public exposure notification for Hook Sea Bar (1210 Denman Street, Vancouver): Feb 9 - 14 During operating hours... This possible exposure is believed to be low risk, but if you visited on these dates, please self-monitor for symptoms: https://bit.ly/2WOrLzW

2020 had the highest number of overdose deaths ever in B.C. Now more than ever, it is the time to come together and find ways to stay safer. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2N6CWlZ

Until last month, people in BC who needed a specialized auditory brainstem implant procedure were usually sent to Los Angeles. Now - thanks to a highly skilled team at Providence Health Care and Vancouver Coastal Health - the surgery is available in Vancouver. More: http://bit.ly/2LKIZeL

Heads up! Construction near VGH on 10th Avenue between Willow and Ash streets has begun. Please plan accordingly.

Ask an expert: I like to exercise, but my muscles always hurt after. Can I prevent soreness following a workout? https://bit.ly/2XxSIYH

Picking up groceries? Touch only the fruits and vegetables you plan to buy and keep a 2 metre distance from other shoppers and employees. More safety tips for grocery shopping: https://bit.ly/34mqjYd

If you've been exposed to COVID-19, you'll be contacted by a contact tracer through public health. If you don't have symptoms, you'll be asked to self-isolate. Here's what happens next: http://bit.ly/2LCntc6

New public health orders state that there can be no social gatherings at residences in BC with anyone outside your household. That means: No gathering with an...yone other than the people you live with People who live alone cannot host gatherings, but can continue to see one or two of the same members of their core pandemic bubble at home Learn more: https://gov.bc.ca/COVID19restrictions

Thinking about dusting off your snowboard, skis or snowshoes soon? For now, please stick close to home. If you live in Vancouver, Richmond, North Vancouver or West Vancouver, visit your local North Shore mountains instead.

With a few key changes, we can still celebrate Halloween this year. Follow these five COVID-19 guidelines for safer trick-or-treating. More Halloween safety tips: https://bit.ly/3dTbIYM

Guidance for when to get a COVID-19 test was updated recently. Take a look: http://bit.ly/3i5B5IR

It's understandable to feel stressed or worried if you hear from a member of our contact tracing team. Please remember: there is zero judgement from us and this process is important for your contacts' safety. Here are some answers to common questions about contact tracing. For more info, visit https://bit.ly/31RDm3G [Text on images below]...Continue reading

New orders are in place to help everyone in BC significantly reduce their social interactions and to stop COVID-19 from spreading in our province. The following... orders and direction are in effect: Mandatory mask mandate for workers and customers in indoor public and retail spaces and in workplace common areas No events or social gatherings with anyone outside your household or core bubble (if you live alone) COVID-19 travel advisory in BC: essential travel only Spin classes, hot yoga, and high intensity interval training are suspended No spectators and no travel outside your community for sports games Learn more: https://gov.bc.ca/covid19restrictions

The UBC Divisions of Cardiology & Cardiovascular Surgery at VGH have made the Newsweek list of top 200 cardiology programs in the world. Read more: https://bit.ly/2UVU4eb

Sunshine Coast and Powell River parents and educators: Don't miss tomorrow's webinar with international experts on the importance of active travel and play to child health and development. For more info and registration, visit https://bit.ly/2TvKAWj

Self-isolating when you live with roommates might feel tricky, but it's possible with clear communication, kindness and some creativity. Here are some of the major do's and don'ts. More detail on self-isolating: https://bit.ly/36Qi6Nx Text on images written below:... How do I self-isolate if I live with roommates? If you’re a close contact of someone who has COVID-19, you must self-isolate for 14 days. But what if you live with roommates? Self-isolating with roommates might feel tricky, but with some simple steps and creativity you can reduce the risk to those around you. Self-isolating with roommates: The Do’s - Stay home for 14 days. - Let your roommates know you’ve been asked to self-isolate. If they have another place to stay for 2 weeks, that’s a good option. - Do your best to stay away from roommates. Use a separate room, bed and bathroom if possible. - Wear a mask if you need to be in a shared space with roommates. - Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces once a day - especially if you share a kitchen or bathroom. This includes counters, doorknobs, taps, toilets and light switches. - Crack a window and get the air moving. Make sure shared spaces are well ventilated Self-isolating with roommates: The Don’ts - Do not go to work, school or any public areas like stores, bars, or restaurants. - Do not use public transportation, taxis, or rideshares. - Do not have visitors for two weeks. This means no visitors for your roommates, too. - Do not make or serve food for others. - Do not share dishes, cups, vapes, eating utensils, towels or bedding. After using shared items, wash them thoroughly with soap and water.

VGH's Orthopaedic Trauma Clinic has been ranked as one of the top 30 orthopaedic hospitals in the world by Newsweek. Read more: https://bit.ly/2UVU4eb

If you smoke or vape, remember to maintain a safe physical distance. Stay at least two metres (six feet) apart if smoking or vaping in a group. Smoke or vape outside instead of inside. http://ow.ly/3EHK50BhdVA

Do you know how to recognize the signs of an opioid, stimulant or alcohol overdose? Learn the signs and how to respond: https://towardtheheart.com/prevention

Looking for COVID-19 resources to help you care for yourself and others? You can find a wide range of information on our website, from advanced care planning guides to emergency meal maps: https://bit.ly/372zrCT

Everyday more than 4 British Columbians die from overdose. For National Addictions Awareness Week be an Ambassador for Change. Know the signs and what to do. Stay safer, buddy up, carry naloxone, and download the Lifeguard app. #NAAW https://www.stopoverdose.gov.bc.ca/

Saline gargle tests for COVID-19 are now available to adults. No eating, drinking, smoking or teeth brushing 1 hour before the test. Where are they provided?... Urban areas: Test collection centres Rural areas: Wherever tests are being collected More details: https://bit.ly/3meJKKO

Q: Who should get the flu shot this year? A: Due to the COVID-19 situation this year, the flu vaccine is recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months old. For more flu shot FAQs, visit https://bit.ly/2FOTQSh

COVID-19 public exposure notification for The Morrissey (1227 Granville St.) Nov. 12-13 6 p.m.-11 p.m (both days)... This possible exposure is believed to be low risk, but if you visited on these dates, please self-monitor for symptoms: https://bit.ly/2WOrLzW

Did you know you can receive negative COVID-19 test results by text, online or by phone? Learn how to access and register for test results: https://bit.ly/3meJKKO Note: If your result is positive for COVID-19, you'll be contacted by Public Health.

Have an upcoming medical appointment? Infection prevention and control standards are in place across VCH to keep you safe. Here's what to expect before and during your time with us: https://bit.ly/32XKcFd

Live in Powell River or on Texada and looking for a flu clinic? Check the full schedule and plan your visit: https://bit.ly/2FOTQSh

Q: When should I get a flu shot? A: Consider getting your flu vaccine annually in the fall. Appointment bookings are available now. Book yours today: https://bit.ly/2FOTQSh

Your top five questions about food and eating during COVID-19, answered by dietitians: https://bit.ly/2Lwp3ZX

This Halloween, trick-or-treating can be done safely with a few key differences: Trick-or-treat in small groups under 6 people Skip homes with lights out Avoid busy or indoor places... Stick to your own nieghbourhood More: https://bit.ly/3dTbIYM

Cleaning your home with simple household cleaning and disinfectant products can help prevent the spread of illness, including COVID-19. For simple cleaning tips from the BCCDC https://bit.ly/3bj7S9e

Cover that cough! This is one thing you can do to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands Used a tissue? Throw it in the trash and wash your hands right away

Did you know the flu shot is recommended for everyone over 6 months of age this year? If there was ever a time to get the flu vaccine, this is the year to do it. Learn more and book your appointment at https://bit.ly/2FOTQSh