With flu season underway, visitors to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) facilities are being asked to wear a mask if they haven’t received their annual flu shot.
“The policy is part of the province’s strategy to prevent the spread of flu and protect already vulnerable patients from a potentially fatal infection,” VCH said in a release issued Dec. 7.
The policy is in effect for all patient care areas in VCH hospitals, including Sechelt Hospital, as well as residential care homes, community health care centres and other health facilities from now to the end of the season, which typically is the end of March.
Flu shots for visitors are free and can be obtained at your family doctor, walk-in clinics or pharmacies. The ImmunizeBC website lists all clinics across B.C. at immunizebc.ca
People who have not had a flu shot can obtain a surgical mask at a nursing station or outpatient reception desk. Doctors, staff, students and volunteers are also required to get immunized or wear a mask while at work during the flu season, VCH said.
