There has been an increase in overdoses in Prince George linked to a dark purple substance sold as “down”. This substance is causing slow, irregular breathing needing naloxone despite being awake. Individuals are requiring continued monitoring and encouragement to breathe.
Patients, their loved ones and health-care staff at the University Hospital of Northern BC (UHNBC) will soon benefit from improved, secure parking options as a new parkade is constructed at the hospital.
“I am happy to see Northern Health take this step toward redeveloping the UHNBC campus, which has needed a refresh and investment for years,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “I have personally seen how capital projects like these support health-care workers and contribute to their recruitment and retention, which helps patients receive the high-quality care they rely on.”
The Northwest Working Group is moving forward to develop critically needed, culturally safe addiction supports in Terrace and the surrounding Northwestern region.
Terrace has one of the highest rates of deaths in the province due to the toxic-drug crisis, with 98.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2023. Indigenous people are almost six times more likely to die from illicit drug poisoning.
More people in Prince George and the surrounding area have access to a new sobering centre operated by Carrier Sekani Family Services in partnership with the Province and Northern Health.
"There is a vital need for people to have access to sobering and assessment services close to home," said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Together with our partners at Carrier Sekani and Northern Health, we’re bringing these critical services to Prince George to save more lives and keep people safe.”
The Province and public-health officials are taking actions to continue protecting people, communities and the health-care system this fall and are encouraging people in BC aged six months and older to get their COVID-19 and influenza vaccines.
To help more people with addiction challenges in Northern BC connect with the care they need to live healthier lives, the Province is adding 17 new beds dedicated to recovery and support.
“Our government believes in the strength of community support,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “To cut down on the distance that many in Northern BC have had to go for help, we're introducing new supportive recovery beds to bring that crucial support to communities across the North.”
