In response to the toxic drug emergency, a new text health alert system has been launched across Northern Health.
The system uses text messaging to send alerts as a public health measure to prevent drug poisonings and deaths and provides timely information and up-to-date resources to people who use drugs and community members.
There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Terrace. The reported substance is known as “down” in a variety of colours. The reported substance tested positive for both benzos and fentanyl and is causing overdose and heavy prolonged sedation.
There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Fort St. John. Reported overdoses have been associated with a blue/green crystal substance that is circulating and sold as Meth. Overdoses are occurring when the substance is smoked.
There has been an increase in sudden overdose events in the community of Prince George. The substances consumed are causing prolonged sedation, requiring multiple doses of naloxone to reverse. Overdoses are occurring when substances are smoked or injected.
The Government of British Columbia and Northern Health are moving to the next step in the procurement process for replacement of the Dawson Creek and District Hospital.
The design of the new state-of-the-art hospital is approximately 60% complete and continuing to advance; however, Northern Health was unable to reach an agreement with the previously selected builder. As a result, a request for proposals will be issued in mid-January 2023 to select a proponent to complete and deliver the project.
Every New Year’s Day, Northern Health monitors its hospitals and labour and delivery units for the birth of New Year’s babies across the region.
Watch this page for updates on the birth of 2023 New Year’s babies in communities across the North.
Baby Paxton was born at 12:45 am at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC), weighing 7 lbs 15 oz. Congratulations to mom and dad, Chelsea and Dave, of Prince George. Baby Paxton is the first for the family.
More people may be planning to visit loved ones in care over the holiday season. In order to protect the health of our patients, residents, and staff, here is a reminder of the current policies in place for visitors to our NH facilities.
