On August 23, 2012, the B.C. Government introduced new influenza measures designed to protect patients and seniors from being exposed to influenza. The provincial news release can be found on the Ministry of Health website at:
BC Government – Influenza Policy Update
LPNABC Statement regarding B.C. new Influenza Control Program Policy
The Association for Licensed Practical Nurses of B.C. would like to thank the Ministry of Health and the Provincial Health Officer for their dedication to the public health and well being with the focus on the seniors and vulnerable population.
LPNABC supports the protection of the public by encouraging all health care workers to adopt this new policy that improve the health of BC families and patient/clients that we are providing nursing services.
“Influenza causes more deaths annually than all other vaccine‐ preventable diseases combined, and hospitalized patients are more vulnerable to complications from influenza than the general population,” said Dr. Kendall. “This policy will protect patients. Putting in place consistent policies to prevent influenza from spreading is the right thing to do from a patient safety perspective.” (BC Influenza Control Policy, 2012)
British Columbia is the first province to initiate a provincial policy for health care providers to protect all patient/clients and their families during the flu season. Please read the policy and encourage each other to be supporters for our own safety as well.
Immunization – LPNs for information on how you can be Immunization Provider go to: “College of Licensed Practical Nurses of BC” website regarding requirements to provide Immunizations in all settings. www.clpnbc.org
Other Facts to Consider :
“Influenza can be a serious contagious disease spread by droplet transmission through close contact with an infected individual. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, nationally there are between 2000 and 8000 deaths per year from influenza and its complications. Infected individuals are highly contagious and can transmit influenza for 24 hours before they are symptomatic.”
“Among vaccine-preventable diseases, influenza causes by far the most deaths, outpacing all other vaccine preventable diseases combined. Hospitalized patients are frequently more vulnerable to influenza than members of the general population. Influenza in vulnerable groups especially the elderly, the very young and the immunosuppressed, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is a major contributor to hospitalizations in winter.” Provincial Health Officer report (2012)
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