Four Outbreaks Declared at Interior Health Long-Term Care Facilities
Interior Health (IH) has announced influenza A respiratory infection outbreaks at four long-term care facilities. The initial notice detailed that Bastion Place in Salmon Arm declared an outbreak in Unit 1 on December 31, signaling the start of what IH describes as a period of heightened surveillance and response. While the IH site confirms Bastion Place as one of the facilities affected, the agency has also reported additional outbreaks at three other long-term care sites within its jurisdiction.
What an Outbreak Means for Residents and Families
For residents, staff, and families, an outbreak of influenza A in a long-term care setting triggers a series of precautionary measures designed to limit transmission. Outbreak status typically leads to enhanced infection prevention protocols, including heightened cleaning routines, improved hand hygiene practices, visitor restrictions or screening, and policies around resident movement within facilities. These steps aim to protect vulnerable populations, particularly older adults and those with underlying health conditions, who are at higher risk for severe illness from influenza A.
Key Precautions and Response Measures
- Increased infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols across units where cases are identified.
- Screening of visitors and staff for flu-like symptoms before entry, with guidance on staying home when ill.
- Isolation or cohorting of symptomatic residents to minimize spread.
- Enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices, including high-touch surfaces and shared spaces.
- Communication with families about symptoms, testing, and care plans, while maintaining privacy guidance.
What Families Should Know
Families with loved ones in affected facilities should stay in touch with the care team for updates on the outbreak status, testing results, and any changes to visit policies. IH emphasizes that residents with respiratory symptoms may be isolated or placed on precautions, but it also notes that staff will continue to provide essential care and social interaction while implementing protective measures.
Prevention Reminders
Preventive actions remain important for all residents, families, and staff, including:
- Getting an annual influenza vaccine when offered, which helps reduce the severity and spread of illness.
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoiding close contact with ill individuals when possible and staying home if you feel unwell.
- Staying up to date on other routine vaccinations as recommended by healthcare providers.
Monitoring and Updates
IH will continue to monitor the outbreaks, posting updates as new information becomes available. The agency’s priority is to protect residents’ health while ensuring continuity of essential care and minimizing disruption to daily life in long-term care facilities. Families are encouraged to check the Interior Health website or contact facility administrators for the latest outbreak status and guidance specific to each site.
Impact on Care and Services
While outbreaks can alter certain routines, care teams are trained to balance infection control with the needs of residents. This often means adjusted visiting policies, temporary changes to group activities, and reinforced protocols for caring for residents with influenza-like symptoms. Facility leadership works closely with IH to ensure any restrictions are proportionate and clearly communicated to families and residents.
Bottom Line
Four long-term care facilities within Interior Health have declared outbreaks of influenza A, including Bastion Place in Salmon Arm. The response focuses on infection prevention, clear communication, and protecting residents. As the situation evolves, IH will provide ongoing updates to help families navigate care during these outbreaks.
