News

TERRACE - Residents and communities in northwestern B.C. are being supported with rapid response from a new Northwest Specialized Response Team (SRT) for those facing mental health and substance use challenges.

"People in northern B.C. need and deserve access to vital addiction and mental health supports," said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. "I'm grateful to see the co-operation of so many to create a system of care that meets the needs of people in each community."

Northern Health is pleased to advise that a COVID-19 outbreak declared June 11, 2021 at Rotary Manor in Dawson Creek, is officially over. COVID-19 outbreak protocols are being lifted for the affected unit (Special Care Unit-South).

In total, there were two confirmed resident cases of COVID-19; sadly, one of the residents who had tested positive in association with the outbreak passed away, and Northern Health extends condolences to their family, friends and caregivers.

The Ministry of Health and BC's Provincial Health Officer, issue daily joint statements regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) response in British Columbia. These announcements can be found on the BC Government News web site and are posted between 3 to 8 pm each day.

As high temperatures and humidex values continue for much of Northern BC into the beginning of July, Northern Health is again reminding all residents and visitors to be aware of the risks of too much heat or sun exposure.

As of July 5, 2021, Northern Health Connections (NHC) is returning to standard passenger eligibility for the medical bus travel service. Passengers eligible to use the bus service include:

For the next several days, high temperatures and humidex values are expected for much of Northern BC. Northern Health reminds all residents and visitors to be aware of the risks of too much heat or sun exposure.

Excessive heat exposure can lead to weakness, disorientation and exhaustion. In severe cases, it can also lead to heat related illness or heat stroke, also known as sunstroke. Heat stroke can be a life-threatening medical emergency.

There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Prince George. The reported substance is DARK PURPLE, sold as “down or fentanyl”. COOKS UP ALMOST BLACK. This substance is highly toxic and may also be known as “Fire”.

For your safety:

Northern Health is pleased to announce that Medical Health Officers have declared an end to a COVID-19 outbreak, originally declared on April 28, 2021, among contracted workforces on the Site C hydroelectric dam project in Northeast BC.

In total, 56 lab-confirmed cases were associated with the outbreak (involving separate clusters of COVID-19 activity since March 2021). All of the cases have since recovered.