Sun protection is not just for beach days. ☀️ UV rays can affect your skin even when it is cloudy or you are only outside for a short time. Learn how to better protect your skin and health this summer: islandhealth.ca/sun-safety

Kindness, care, and compassion show up in the moments that matter most. A heartfelt thank you to Patricia for sharing her appreciation for the team at James Bay Urgent & Primary Care Centre 💙 Have you experienced care that made a difference? Share a note of gratitude: islandhealth.ca/care-kudos

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #MountWaddington area. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

For babies born early or too sick to breastfeed, donor milk can provide important nutrition when they need it most. Donor milk is safely collected and shared with hospitals across B.C. If you have extra breast milk, you can help. Learn More: ow.ly/ySUa50Z5L4O

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for Nanaimo. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Whether you’re heading out on the water this weekend, hitting the road, camping, or hosting friends, a few smart choices make all the difference. Stay safe: • DriveBC.ca • Weather.gc.ca • EmergencyInfoBC.ca • Report wildfires on the BCWS app or by dialing *5555 on your cell

Nurses, you are there for people through some of life’s hardest and most important moments. Your compassion, care and support leave a lasting impact on patients, families and communities. This National Nursing Week, share appreciation for a nurse who made a difference at islandhealth.ca/care-kudos

Thank you nurses for showing up for patients and communities with skill, empathy, and heart each and every day. You bring compassion, strength, and dedication to every shift, every patient interaction, and every moment of care. 💙 Share your appreciation: islandhealth.ca/care-kudos

Not sure if you or your child are up to date on the HPV vaccine? Talk to your health-care provider, pharmacy or public health unit to get started and determine your eligibility: https://ow.ly/gskm50YT0aU

Do you know a youth looking to grow and explore future career paths? Youth volunteers Ava, Eren, Liv, Sierra and their fellow student volunteers are making a meaningful impact through the Step Up Youth program. Apply today! islandhealth.ca/stepupyouth

This Earth Day, we are highlighting progress to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, with real improvements happening where people receive care. Read more: https://ow.ly/LRPl50YOhfL

A moment of kindness can change everything. 💙 This National Volunteer Week, we’re celebrating Island Health volunteers who support patients, families and care teams every day. Read more about volunteers’ experiences: ow.ly/fu8h50YMQEH Apply to become a volunteer: islandhealth.ca/volunteer

Some habits have a bigger impact on your heart than others. Dr. Swiggum, a cardiologist at RJH, ranks them: - Resistance training (2x per week): 10/10 - Weight management: 10/10 - Quality sleep: 8/10 - Coconut oil: 0/10 Make the habits that count part of your routine. More: heartandstroke.ca

Every part of the new Quw'utsun Valley Hospital / Quw'utsun Hulitun-ew't-hw is designed with people in mind. From welcoming spaces to rooms that support safety, healing, and dignity, this hospital is built for the community. Opening 2027. Learn more: islandhealth.ca/newcdh

10 years after B.C. declared the toxic drug crisis a public health emergency, the impact is still being felt in communities across the region. For support, call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

Today, we honour Indigenous nurses who lead with compassion, cultural knowledge, and strength. Their work is changing lives and systems every day. #IndigenousNursesDay

School-based clinics make it easier for parents. No extra appointments, no missed work, and kids can get vaccinated in a place they already know. Find your local health unit to check your child’s immunization record: www.islandhealth.ca/our-location... #PublicHealthWeek

Not everything labeled “healthy” helps your heart. Dr. Swiggum, a cardiologist at RJH, shares where to focus if you want to make a real difference. Simple, everyday choices like eating whole foods and managing stress matter more than trends. Learn more at heartandstroke.ca

Getting help with alcohol or drug use doesn’t have to be complicated. With one call, a care team member will listen, understand your needs, and help connect you to the right supports. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 (9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily) or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

A significant step forward for cancer care at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The future BC Cancer centre will expand access to care in Nanaimo and surrounding communities for patients and families when it opens in 2028. Learn more at ow.ly/iyIE50Yzj16 or email [email protected].

Want to feel more confident about your baby’s sleep? Here are a few key tips: - Place baby on their back for every sleep - Use a firm, separate sleep surface in your room - Keep the sleep space clear and uncluttered Register for Right From the Start: www.islandhealth.ca/pregnancy

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Victoria Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

There is a lot you can do to protect your heart. Dr. Chris Franco, General Cardiologist at Royal Jubilee Hospital, ranks common strategies to reduce heart risk. Take the free Risk Screen at riskscreen.heartandstroke.ca

If you are under 19 and living in the Island Health region, you could be eligible for the 2026 Youth Harm Reduction Award. Recipients receive $1,000 (total) and a framed certificate. Apply by April 15 at islandhealth.ca/yhra

Cardiac arrest can happen without warning. When it does, the people nearby matter most. Acting quickly can double someone’s chance of survival. You do not need to be a healthcare provider to save a life. Anyone can learn CPR. Take a course at heartandstroke.ca/cpr. Be ready when it matters most.

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Cowichan. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Nanaimo. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Good news for Nanaimo and central Vancouver Island. We are moving ahead with concept planning for a new patient tower at Nanaimo Hospital, expanding acute and cardiac services to deliver care for patients closer to home.

Are you looking to change your relationship with alcohol or drugs? One call can connect you to services like detox, counselling, treatment programs, or medication that helps you manage withdrawal or cravings. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

Mental health supports for youth are available. These services offer immediate crisis support and ongoing tools for teens and young people across BC.

Today is a Day of Mourning in BC for the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives, students and staff, first responders, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community. Please join us in observing a moment of silence at 12:00 PM (PST).

British Columbians grieve with Tumbler Ridge and hold the families & friends suffering loss & affected by the tragedy close in our hearts. If you need support: 310-Mental Health Support: 310-6789 Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 FoundryBC.ca

Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or distressed, please reach out. Help is available: islandhealth.ca/get-support You don’t have to go through this alone. Get support now.

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Victoria. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #Nanaimo. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

If alcohol or drugs are affecting your life, work or relationships, support is just one call away. Reach out to Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care

The name Quw'utsun Valley Hospital / Quw'utsun Hulitun-ew't-hw is now in place above the west entrance on Bell McKinnon Road in North Cowichan. Learn more about the new name and construction progress: islandhealth.ca/newcdh/news

PLEASE SHARE: A Drug Poisoning Overdose Advisory has been issued for #PortAlberni. Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

We stand with Tseshaht First Nation and all Indigenous people affected by the recent hateful vandalism in Port Alberni. Wearing orange reflects our commitment to respect, understanding, and a community where all people feel safe, valued, and supported.

PLEASE SHARE: #Victoria Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Are you concerned about your alcohol or drug use? You don’t need to have the answers before you call. A care team member will listen, learn what you need, and help connect you to services. Call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. daily or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF

Are you concerned about your alcohol or drug use? You don’t need to have the answers before you call. A care team member will listen, learn what you need, and help connect you to services. Call Access Central 1-888-885-8824, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. daily, or visit islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.

New year, new goals. ✨ Thinking about drinking less? Cutting back on alcohol can mean: - Better sleep and more energy - Improved mood and clearer focus - Healthier skin and more balanced hormones - A higher sex drive - More money in your pocket Learn more: islandhealth.ca/alcohol

Hospitalist services resumed this morning (Wednesday, December 24, 2025), helping make sure patients can access the care they need close to home. Thank you patients, families, and staff for your patience during the temporary pause. Learn more: bit.ly/4qtetEr

Holiday care reminder✨ If you or a loved one needs care: 1. Call 8-1-1 2. Call your doctor/NP ask for an urgent appointment 3. Ask your pharmacist about prescribing or an urgent refill More options: islandhealth.ca/find-care

The holidays can be joyful and stressful. Big gatherings, busy schedules, and different personalities can take a toll. You’re not alone. Help is here when you need it. Call 1-888-885-8824 or visit islandhealth.ca/mhsu for support and services.

Running low on medication? Before the holiday rush, check with your pharmacist. They can provide emergency refills and treat 21 common conditions quickly. Find a pharmacist near you: seeyourpharmacist.ca

In order to ensure continued safe patient care, some patients at WCGH may be transferred to another hospital. The Emergency Department remains open 24/7. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency department. Learn more: ow.ly/jXJo50XHfpT

PLEASE SHARE: #Cowichan Overdose Advisory has been extended. There are options for safer use: Find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more: ow.ly/FgyS50PLkLF