COVID outbreak results in six deaths in Vernon

The COVID-19 outbreak at Vernon’s Polson Extended Care facility resulted in six deaths.

Interior Health confirmed the deaths with Vernon Matters, adding there were a total of 43 cases and one hospitalization linked to the outbreak.

The health authority noted that, while most people are experiencing less severe illness from COVID, the residents of long-term care facilities remain highly vulnerable to severe infections due to health complications.

IH noted that the Omicron variant is more transmissible than previous variants, resulting in the virus circulation more easily in the community.

“While the severity of cases has been relatively low in the last few months, which reflects all the progress that we have made in the last two years, we continue to be very vigilant and put protective and control measures in place when cases are identified, to ensure an adequate level of protection for our elderly residents,” said Interior Health in a statement to Vernon Matters.

The outbreak at the Polson Extended Care facility was first declared on September 27. Interior Health removed the site from the outbreak list today (Oct. 13).

As of time of publication, there were no active outbreaks at health facilities in Vernon.