Intensive care patients being relocated from Vernon hospital as precaution due to wildfire

Interior Health is relocating intensive care patients and those with complex needs out of Vernon Jubilee Hospital due to the White Rock Lake wildfire burning in the region.

Planning is also underway for the potential relocation of care home residents, according to the health authority's news release.

The White Rock Lake wildfire is mapped at 55,700 hectares in size and is burning to the west of Vernon.

The Vernon Jubilee Hospital remains open but patients are being proactively relocated to ensure continuity of care. Families of all evacuated patients are being notified directly, according to the health authority.

While the weather forecast over the next 48 hours is favourable, Interior Health is monitoring developments near Vernon, Armstrong and Spallumcheen as the region remains at risk of wildfire threats.

Wildfire planning includes supporting anyone who may be in isolation due to COVID-19. Interior Health will ensure separate arrangements are made for anyone with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 to protect the public from potential exposure, according to the health authority.

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