Facilities in Cranbrook and Castlegar have joined the growing list of locations within Interior Health currently battling flu outbreaks.
IH has confirmed there are three cases in the outbreak at Joseph Creek Care Village’s Jim Smith and Lakit units, as of February 28. The causative agent in this outbreak has not been identified at this time.
Another outbreak was declared at the Joseph Creek Care Village’s Elizabeth Lake neighbourhood. There are two cases in this outbreak as of February 24. The causative agent is influenza.
Meanwhile, the Talarico Place outbreak in Castlegar, has seen two cases reported as of February 20. The causative agent is influenza.
There are no updated numbers to share, as this remains an active outbreak and numbers are fluctuating daily.
Dr. Sanaz Vaseghi, Medical Health Officer with Interior Health says we are in the thick of the flu season across the region and the province, specifically with the influenza infection, and everyone is encouraged to do their part to stay safe and well.
“It is good to raise awareness that respiratory illnesses are being circulated in the area and people need to be more vigilant to protect themselves and others around them,” said Vaseghi.
“There are some tools that we can protect ourselves, including staying up to date with your vaccinations,”
“If you are asymptomatic, try to avoid close contact with people who are sick and you can always wear masks in the crowd to protect yourselves, and hand washing frequently is a very important tool that you have.”
“If you become symptomatic and you get sick, we recommend you stay home to avoid spreading the infection further. Also, opening windows to have a good ventilation if you’re indoor is very helpful.”
“We also recommend practicing respiratory etiquettes, wearing a mask if you’re symptomatic to protect others around you, cough and sneeze into your elbow also helps in preventing the spread of the germs.”
While influenza cases are on the rise, Vaseghi says the numbers are comparable to this time last year.
The respiratory season typically runs from October to early May, though it varies year to year. So, get ready, it isn’t over anytime soon.
