So far, so good.
Shuswap Lake General Hospital has been running at 120 to 140 per cent above capacity. But, unlike many other Interior Health communities, none of the local health-care facilities have flu outbreaks – yet.
“There are definitely respiratory ailments, but it’s a real combination of a lot of sick people, a multitude of ailments,” said hospital manager Mark Pugh.
Pamela de Bruin, IH manager of communicable diseases and immunization programs, says this year’s H3N2 virus particularly impacts the elderly, often increasing hospitalizations and death.
She says this winter’s flu shot is a good match and people should call their pharmacy to arrange immunization.
“Because the impact is so high, people with respiratory illnesses should stay away from others,” de Bruin says.