News
Temporary service interruption at Port Hardy Hospital emergency department
Due to short notice, unexpected sick calls leading to a temporary shortage of nursing coverage, the Port Hardy Hospital emergency department will be closed for the remainder of August 16, beginning immediately.
Heat warning expanded to include additional Island Health regions
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a heat warning several regions in Island Health. A strong ridge of high pressure will remain over southern B.C. through Wednesday. Well above seasonal daytime temperatures combined with elevated overnight temperatures will mean little relief from the heat. Temperatures are expected to lower a few degrees on Thursday as the ridge begins to break down. Daytime temperatures reaching 29 to 34 C are expected.
Spotlight on International Youth Volunteer Day
In celebration of this year’s International Youth Day (August 12) we had a chance to interview an amazing Island Health youth volunteer who lives and volunteers in the Port Hardy region. Isadora, aged 15, started volunteering with the Step Up Youth (SUY) program in the fall of 2022 and has continued to dedicate her time to local Long-Term Care residents, showing a passion for her community and a strong desire to make a difference.
Give people the tools: Dr. Paivi Abernethy on climate change, health and empowerment
In December 2012, Dr. Paivi Abernethy had an epiphany. As part of her PhD research, she was conducting interviews with various specialists about the fallout from torrential rain in Mid-Wales during the past summer. As a result of the deluge, tailings from historic silver mines overflowed and ran downhill; the concentration of lead resulted in the death of cattle. There were also serious concerns among locals about toxicity in community gardens.
Currents Summer 2023
Summer is here and the warm sun is gracing us. In Island Health, our staff, medical staff, students and volunteers continue to shine brightly with unwavering passion for our shared work and the people we serve, despite the incredible challenges our teams face.
Coming together to ensure resilient water systems
As climate change impacts our world and our health, Island Health continues to put a local lens on a topic of global importance: the stewardship of our water systems.
Preventable drownings increase across Island Health
A new report from the BC Coroners Service shows that 18 people died last year by accidental drowning in the Island Health region – three more people than the ten year average of 15.
Island Health and Our Cowichan Communities Health Network launch first-of-its-kind health and wellness survey for residents of Cowichan Valley
Island Health and Our Cowichan Communities Health Network are launching a health and wellness survey for residents of the Cowichan Valley aimed at gathering information that will help to inform programs, services and policies in the region.
Victoria team honoured with Youth Harm Reduction Award
A Victoria-based Youth Action Team that promoted harm reduction education and training at Belmont Secondary School has been recognized by Island Health for its innovation and dedication.