Thread by @brish_ti

#NEW: Omicron's newest subvariants are already here and spreading fast, with their ability to bypass antibodies from both vaccines and prior infection, says new data from BC + experts.

What it means for our healthcare system this summer:
#bcpoli capitaldaily.ca/news/summer-wa…

“We are all incredibly worried that there will be more morbidity and mortality," said ER physician Dr. Jeff Unger.

Last week, Saanich Peninsula Hospital asked Island Health to shut down the ER overnight, to redirect staff to their busiest hours.

Island Health said no.

With public health measures all but gone & waning immunity from 3rd doses, BA.4 and BA.5 are expected soon become dominant in BC.

A new study shows that the more times you get reinfected with COVID-19, the higher your risk of death, hospitalization, and long COVID.

#COVID19BC

According to @sarperotto, getting a booster shot right before the next wave (ie right now) is key to avoiding reinfections.

But, as reported by CBC, 4th doses aren't available to anyone who wants one, even though 200K doses are on the brink of expiry.

cbc.ca/news/canada/br…

6,361 people have been referred to long COVID clinics in BC—250 to the post COVID clinic at Royal Jubilee Hospital that opened in April.

Unger says the 3 major hospitals refer about 25 patients to the #yyj long COVID clinic per week. Wait time for intake is up to 6 months

Though 4th doses are not available to anyone who wants one, BC health ministry insists that vaccines "continue to be the primary tool in our toolbox."

TLDR: Read this before you commit to your Canada Day plans:

@CapitalDailyVic #bcpoli #COVID19BC

capitaldaily.ca/news/summer-wa…