As of this week, hospital visitors who havenB次元官网网址檛 received a seasonal flu shot will need to wear a mask.

Just in time for flu season, Island Health is reminding the public about changes made last year affecting visitors to B.C. health-care facilities, including long-term care and other retirement homes.

B次元官网网址淟ast year it became a provincial policy for visitors (who havenB次元官网网址檛 received a flu shot) to wear a mask, and that is because we often have these kinds of illnesses brought into the facility from the community,B次元官网网址� said Island Health spokesperson Sarah Plank. B次元官网网址淏ecause the people are vulnerable, we want to offer them as much protection as possible.B次元官网网址�

The flu season generally starts in December and ends in April. However, Plank said there has already been a confirmed influenza outbreak at Aberdeen Hospital, a residential care facility on Hillside Avenue, accentuating the need for care at all times. Masks will be made available for free for anyone not yet vaccinated.

Approximately 3,500 Canadians die from influenza or its complications every year. Last year, Island Health distributed 243,000 flu vaccines to pharmacies, doctors offices and public health units across the region. This year that number is up to 268,700.

B次元官网网址淲e trust that people want to do the right thing. No one wants to cause someone who is vulnerable to get sick,B次元官网网址� Plank said. B次元官网网址淪o, itB次元官网网址檚 on the honour system and we expect as (the public) becomes aware of the policy, theyB次元官网网址檒l do the right thing.B次元官网网址�

alim@goldstreamgazette.com