In an effort to prevent influenza from spreading, Vancouver Coastal Health has started a new policy requiring visitors to don a surgical mask if they haven't had a flu shot.
The flu policy is in effect from now until March 31 at all patient care areas in VCH hospitals, long-term care homes and other health facilities.
"You can spread the flu for up to 24 hours before symptoms appear, so you can pass it on before you even know you're sick," stated Dr. Meena Dawar, VCH medical health officer, in a media release. "We're encouraging visitors to all our facilities to abide by the policy and either get a flu shot or wear a mask."
Flu shots are free for health facility visitors and can be done at a family doctor's office, VCH flu clinic, walk-in clinic or pharmacy.
Visitors who have had a flu shot are not required to wear the surgical masks.
Influenza is highly contagious and causes complications for people with weakened immune systems.
Every year across Canada, about 4,000 to 8,000 people die from complications due to the flu and pneumonia, 90 per cent of which are seniors.
"The flu can be devastating for our patients because many have weakened immune systems and are more susceptible to serious illness," Dawar said.
The flu shot is also free for children six months to five years of age, people aged 65 and older, pregnant women, aboriginal people, those with chronic health conditions, and people who live or work with someone at high risk of getting the flu.
