B.C. Nurses' Union slams idea that would allow some COVID-19-positive staff to keep working

The B.C. Nurses' Union is voicing concerns about the possibility of some COVID-19-positive health-care workers being asked to continue working in B.C.

The B.C. Nurses' Union is voicing concerns about the possibility of some COVID-19-positive health-care workers being asked to continue working in B.C.

The idea was announced Wednesday by provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry during the afternoon news conference.

“Yes, we are looking at fitness for work for people who have mild illness in the health-care setting,” Dr. Henry said.

It’s not known what capacity workers would be used in and whether it would involve interaction with patients.

She was asked about the possibility of B.C. following in the footsteps of Quebec. That province announced it will be asking certain workers to stay on the job despite testing positive for COVID-19 or coming in contact with someone who is sick.

The move is also being considered in Manitoba as critical staffing shortages impact health systems across the country.

Danette Thomson, interim vice-president of the B.C. Nurses' Union said she was “gobsmacked” when she heard Dr. Henry make the announcement Wednesday.