BC not seeing fall surge in COVID hospitalizations

British Columbia is not seeing a surge in people needing to be hospitalized due to respiratory illnesses, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said today.

Over the summer, there were concerns that the fall flu and cold season would see an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations. So far, that has not happened.

Dr. Henry said the current situation does not warrant a formal mask mandate.

“While COVID-19 continues to circulate in communities, the situation has changed … and the number of people at risk for serious outcomes from COVID-19 has dropped significantly,” states the provincial news release. “There are many tools to get people through respiratory illness season. The most important is to maximize protection through vaccination. People are also encouraged to check daily for symptoms of respiratory illness, wash their hands regularly and practise respiratory etiquette. This includes wearing a mask if they have mild symptoms, covering coughs and disposing of tissues appropriately.”