Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update Page Launched by BCCPA
BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) has launched a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) update page where we will be posting regular bulletins for BCCPA and EngAge BC Members. Please visit this page regularly for our communication regarding the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Members can also expect bulletins sent via email to our Member365 list, so make sure that you have your up-to-date email included as part of your member listing. If you need assistance with updating with your “M365” contact information, please direct your question to Cora Schupp, our director of finance and members services.
Yesterday BCCPA reached out to the other industry associations for the seniors care sector and the Ministry of Health to begin daily briefing calls starting Tuesday. The leadership from SafeCare BC, Denominational Health Association and the BC Seniors Living Association have accepted our invitation to form a working group that will include an Assistant Deputy Minister from the Ministry of Health. By increasing communication among the associations and government, it will allow for quicker response times and help our respective members by providing the best information available.
Over the weekend, BCCPA was in touch with Ministry of Health officials and SafeCare BC on the news of the first instance of COVID-19 found in a care home. Both organizations have been responding to multiple national and local media outlets in order to ensure that the public is informed as to the preparations care providers are taking to help prevent the spread of the disease.
We have learned today that the first person in Canada has died as a result of the coronavirus. This happened at our member care home in North Vancouver. We are greatly saddened by this news, and would like to express our condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
Other Updates and Resources
On Friday, March 6th the provincial government announced new pandemic procedures being put in place. Read that release here.
For the COVID-19 pandemic preparedness and planning materials, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/pandemic-influenza.
For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)
For more information and latest updates on COVID-19, follow the BC Centre for Disease Control on Twitter @CDCofBC or visit the website: http://www.bccdc.ca/
In the News
COVID-19: Outbreak at senio care home in North Vancouver, six new cases in B.C. | Vancouver Sun
Increased challenges for caregivers amidst COVID-19 outbreak | Global News