Staffing Shortages Lead to ER Closures in B.C.
Multiple hospitals in B.C.'s Interior faced staffing shortages, causing temporary emergency room closures. Nicola Valley Hospital's ER closed from Sunday to Tuesday due to limited physician availability. Lillooet, Cariboo Memorial, and South Okanagan General Hospitals also experienced closures, with patients redirected to nearby facilities for care.
Listeria Alert: Plant-Based Beverages Recalled
Silk and Great Value brand plant-based beverages are being recalled due to Listeria concerns. Products include almond, coconut, and oat milk. Illnesses have been reported. Consumers should discard or return the products, which may appear fine but can cause severe symptoms like fever and muscle aches.
Recall Alert: Baixiang Instant Noodles Poses Allergy Risk
Certain Baixiang brand instant noodles in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario are recalled due to undeclared peanuts, posing serious allergy risks. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency advises consumers allergic or sensitive to peanuts not to consume the affected products. No reactions have been reported yet.
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Bird Flu Surveillance Gaps Worry Experts
Scientists warn that insufficient surveillance of bird flu could delay detection of a potential pandemic. The spread of H5N1 to U.S. dairy herds raises concerns about human transmission. Limited testing and coordination hamper efforts to monitor and respond effectively, experts caution.
Ottawa Expands Federal Dental Program Eligibility
Ottawa will broaden the federal dental program today to cover children under 18 and those receiving a disability tax credit, potentially adding 1.2 million eligible individuals. Critics argue tying disability eligibility to the tax credit excludes many in need. Full income-based eligibility is set for January 2025, negotiated with the New Democrats.
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New Study Identifies Genetic Link to Obesity
Obesity's causes are multifaceted, with new research identifying a genetic trigger. The SMIM1 gene mutation, found in about 1 in 5,000 people, leads to decreased thyroid function and energy expenditure, causing weight gain. Future research will explore potential thyroid treatments for those with this mutation.