Covid-19 Update October 3rd, 2023
/Hello Strathcona Midwifery Families,
As we head into respiratory illness season, our policies are once again updated. Please review this information carefully before contacting your midwives, and keep in mind that these policies may need to shift again in the future.
Appointment Information:
Surgical masks are highly recommended in our clinic. In order to protect our clients and our team, and as per the October 3rd provincial mandate, our staff and midwives will be wearing masks during all appointments.
One partner or support person and child may join in-person for each appointment as long as they are feeling well. Please do not bring children with a runny nose, a cough, or a fever.
Do not enter if you or anyone in your household has symptoms of Covid-19 or any contagious illness in the last 14 days – even with a recent negative rapid test. We must prevent the spread of all infections through the clinic.
Use hand sanitizer provided when you arrive, or wash your hands with soap and water.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Should I get my Covid booster?
Yes. We are recommending that all pregnant people follow the public health and SOGC recommendations and get their Covid vaccines and boosters. We recommend getting your booster as soon as you are eligible. You will be offered either the Moderna or Pfizer and either are an appropriate option. We do not recommend “shopping around” for an alternate booster vaccine option to what you are being offered.
Should I test for Covid?
If you have symptoms outlined by public health, or have had a close contact (not wearing a mask and within 6 ft) please get tested and isolate as recommended here.
When to get a Covid-19 Test - BC CDC
Where should I get a Covid test?
Book an appointment at a testing site near you. You can find information regarding testing sites here
Should I inform my midwife if I am Covid positive?
Yes. However, this is NOT an emergency call, and you do not need to phone the pager number unless you have severe symptoms that require emergent care or have concerns that need immediate attention. If you have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, please send our office an email to inform us that you are covid positive. We will discuss it at your next scheduled appointment.
If your next midwifery appointment falls within your isolation window, please call the clinic and have your appointment changed to a virtual appointment. We will rebook you in clinic when appropriate.
What is safe to take in pregnancy to manage Covid symptoms?
Generally managing symptoms with natural remedies is best. Make sure you stay well hydrated and nourished and rest as much as possible.
To manage fever and body aches it is safe to take up to 1000mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 6 hours. Please do not take Tylenol cold and flu as this has added ingredients that are not safe for pregnancy.
To manage nasal congestion use a saline nose spray (such as Salinex), and drink lots of water.
To manage cough: drink lots of fluids and sip on warm tea or broth. You can use regular cough drops. Sometimes antihistamines can help with a cough, and Diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl) is safe to take in pregnancy. If you need to use a cough syrup, one with dextromethorphan (found in Benylin) will help if you have a persistent dry cough. If your cough is wet, do not use an expectorant cough syrup without talking to a pharmacist or midwife.
We continue to wish you all the best through these changing times!
The Strathcona Midwifery team