News

Possible exposure to free-roaming kitten with rabies in rural area of Chemainus

Island Health is informing the public that a free-roaming kitten in a rural area of Chemainus recently tested positive for rabies. The likelihood that people not already identified came into contact with this animal is very low, but out of an abundance of caution we are notifying the community.

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The cutting edge of medical imaging: how artificial intelligence improves MRIs

Patients across the Island Health region are benefiting from quicker, higher-quality magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans powered by artificial intelligence (AI) software following successful pilot projects in Nanaimo.

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“An amazing program”: reusable gowns initiative launches at Island Health

A reusable gowns program at Island Health is helping protect staff and patients while supporting sustainable, cost-effective practices.

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Vibes high, risks low: Your guide to a safe summer festival season

Summer is here, ushering in the unofficial festival season. Island Health has tips for festival fun to help keep the vibes high and risks low.

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Estimated Island Health emergency department wait times available online

People in need of health-care services now have more information at their fingertips thanks to a new webpage featuring estimated emergency department wait times and detailed patient resources.

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Making a difference: Mill Bay teen wins 2025 Youth Harm Reduction Award

Island Health has recognized Kalla Shields for her efforts to promote harm reduction awareness and training at Frances Kelsey Secondary School in Mill Bay.

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Island Health urges water safety this summer

With summer underway and more people heading to beaches, lakes and backyard pools, Island Health is reminding everyone to make water safety a priority to prevent drownings and serious injuries.

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Measles exposures notifications for Interior, Fraser Valley, Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island

Public health is advising of several locations where people may have been exposed to measles between June 16 and 21.

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Thunderbird Wing offers private, culturally safe access to Central Nanaimo UPCC

The Thunderbird Wing offers a more discretionary pathway for patients accessing the service, including those who may have experienced sexual assault and require the care of a forensic nurse examiner.

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Virtual psychiatry service brings timely mental health care to rural communities

Island Health now offers Virtual On-Demand Urgent Psychiatry, giving adults in five rural hospitals evening and weekend access to psychiatric care via secure virtual consultations.

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