As patient volumes at Prince Rupert Regional Hospital remain above average, Northern Health is asking residents with influenza symptoms to stay home.
The increase in patients has strained several hospital departments, particularly the emergency department. Northern Health said residents with less urgent health care needs, such as influenza, should visit a primary care provider or family doctor instead of going to the hospital.
Northern Health is advising residents experiencing influenza symptoms to stay home and rest, drink plenty of fluids, avoid smoking and breathe moist air from a hot shower to help clear a stuffy nose.
Northern Health also suggests contacting your healthcare provider if you have an underlying condition that could increase the risk of complications with influenza-like symptoms. Residents should also contact a care provider if symptoms get worse.
