Virtual Breakfast Forum – COVID, Smoke and Flu Season

Thank you to everyone that participated in today’s Virtual Breakfast Forum. We were pleased to welcome a few newer members, as well as many regular participants and some members that haven’t had the opportunity to join us yet.

We have been working hard at getting our Virtual Round Table up and running, and are thrilled to announce that we will be launching registration today. Due to COVID-19, this year’s Round Table will be held virtually, over Zoom, and will take place over two days: November 10th & 12th. Members will receive an email with a link to our registration page, including the agenda, discussion topics and registration details. Tickets for the event are included in membership fees, and the number of tickets allocated to each organization is based on the fee paid. Please contact ehscbcreg@gmail.com with any registration questions. Non – members can register for the Virtual Round Table HERE.

Due to the recent forest fires, we are seeing many respiratory issues. Some members reported that their organizations were severely affected due to proximity to either the fires in Oregon or the recent fire in New Westminster. Smoke inhalation issues are also respiratory concerns, similar to those experienced with COVID-19.

Discussions revolved around the continuing threat of employees having had contact with family or friends testing positive for COVID-19. With the return to school, it is much more concerning now that our bubbles are rapidly expanding. It’s not only our kids that are at risk, it is also teachers who come into contact with so many students. With flu season approaching, it is important to review your COVID-19 policies and plans in case of a 2nd outbreak.

One way to provide support to your employees is to offer a flu shot clinic at your organization or to reimburse out of pocket expenses for these shots. Members reported that this initiative has been very popular, as staff see this as leaders doing their part to keep their teams healthy and safe. Another suggestion was to offer a wellness fair, checking blood pressure, blood sugar testing, and mental health support.