News

Northern Health is issuing a Drug Advisory for the Northwest region of BC. Several “Down” samples submitted for drug checking have tested positive for Medetomidine.

Northern Health and FNHA are issuing a drug alert for the community of Smithers. A dark blue drug sold as “down” has been reported to be much stronger than expected and has highly sedative effects that last for extended periods of time. This is occurring whether smoked or injected.

Northern Health is pleased to announce that the preferred mechanical and electrical non-owner participants (NOPs) for the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC) Acute Care Tower project have been selected:

There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Prince Rupert. Overdoses are happening whether the substance is smoked and/or injected.

The first steps of a review of the health authorities have been completed, which included reducing administrative costs, and work is underway to improve efficiencies and redirect savings to frontline services.

Northern Health is proud to announce the launch of its Climate Change and Sustainability Roadmap, a bold five-year strategy (2025–2030) designed to amplify existing efforts to build a healthier, more resilient North.

The Roadmap outlines 18 key actions for the health authority across four focus areas:

Northern Health and First Nations Health Authority are issuing a Toxic Drug Alert for the community of Dawson Creek. A blue ‘rock chunk’ like substance being sold as ‘heroin’ has been linked to an increase of overdose events.

There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Prince George with people reporting slowed heart rate and heavy and prolonged sedation requiring more naloxone to reverse. The reported substance is being sold as “down” or “heroin”.