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Fraser Health urging public to help bend the COVID-19 curve

With COVID-19 cases surging in Fraser Health, the health authority is pleading with the public to take steps to help bend back the curve.
Victoria Lee
Fraser Health CEO Dr. Victoria Lee.

With COVID-19 cases surging in Fraser Health, the health authority is pleading with the public to take steps to help bend back the curve.

“While we are still doing better than many parts of Canada and other countries, we cannot let our guard down,” said Dr. Victoria Lee, president and CEO of Fraser Health. “Many of you have made lots of sacrifices already, but now is the time that we must be vigilant by minimizing social interactions outside of our households.”

The majority of the new cases are linked to known cases and clusters. Community-related clusters and outbreaks are connected to weddings, social gatherings and worksites. Transmission from these events spread to health care facilities, workplaces and schools. 

“Even small gatherings are risky right now,” added Dr. Elizabeth Brodkin. “To keep our communities safe, we are urging the public to refrain from holding parties, celebrations or any gatherings – especially with Halloween and the Diwali festival coming up. Now is not the time for large celebrations and gatherings.”

Fraser Health is seeing worksite exposures in diverse settings. Mostly during breaks, lunch and social interactions. The health authority appreciates how workplaces have prepared for COVID-19 with new protocols and would like to take this opportunity to remind all businesses to review their plans and ensure they are following WorkSafeBC guidelines. Plans need to be as robust as possible and support employees to stay home if sick with even mild symptoms. 

Currently Fraser Health says it is maintaining all its health service levels, plus surgical services has expanded to catch up. The authority is also expanding its virtual care services to make care easier and safer for patients in the communities it serves.

“Please stay strong and committed for your own health and for your loved ones,” said Lee. “Stay committed for our communities and local businesses. We have bent the curve before and together we can do it again.”

Public health guidelines work. Fraser Health reminds everyone to wash their hands, physically distance, and wear a mask. Stay home if you are unwell.

Visit: fraserhealth.ca/covid19 for information you can trust about COVID-19.