As of today, all visitors to Northern Health facilities are being asked to wear a surgical mask if they haven鈥檛 received their annual flu shot.

According to Northern Health, the policy is part of the province鈥檚 strategy to prevent the spread of flu and protect already vulnerable patients from a potentially fatal infection.

鈥淧atients and clients in hospitals and long term care facilities often have weakened immune systems that put them at greater risk of serious complications from influenza,鈥� said Northern Health chief medical health officer Dr. Sandra Allison. 鈥淭he best way to protect not only yourself but the people around you is to get a flu shot, even if you鈥檙e normally a healthy individual.鈥�

People who have not had a flu shot can obtain a mask at a nursing station or outpatient reception desk. Doctors, staff, students and volunteers are also required to get immunized or wear a mask in patient care areas during the flu season.

The policy is applicable to all patient care areas in Northern Health hospitals, long-term care homes and other health facilities between Dec. 1, 2017 and approximately March 31, 2018.

Flu shots are free in B.C. for all children from six months to five years of age, people 65 years and older, Aboriginal people, those with chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems, and for anyone who lives or works with a person who is at higher risk of problems from the flu.

Flu shots are also free for anyone visiting any Northern Health facility, including people who are accompanying patients to their appointments.

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