According to Island Health’s latest update, two Greater Victoria hospitals are still experiencing a flu outbreak.
In its latest update, both Victoria General Hospital (VGH) and Saanich Peninsula Hospital are dealing with norovirus outbreaks.
Several long-term care homes were included in a report from late April, but it appears they have since been cleared of the virus.
An influenza A outbreak has also been declared at Tsawaayuus (Rainbow Gardens) in Port Alberni.
The outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital was identified in Extended Care Unit One, while the outbreak at Victoria General Hospital (VGH) occurred on the N6C floor.
Health Canada describes norovirus as a “highly contagious virus” that leads to diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms can appear as soon as 12 hours after exposure, and most people recover within two to three days.
For more information on Norovirus, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control website.
Flu symptoms can appear up to four days after exposure and may vary in severity. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, and muscle aches.
An outbreak is declared in a hospital in BC only if three or more cases of either patients or staff occur within a certain time frame and within a specific area or unit.
For example, Island Health says that when a case of H1N1 is confirmed, it is not listed on these pages unless there is a recognized outbreak with over three cases that meet the outbreak criteria.
For more answers to Island Health outbreak questions, visit their website.
