Ian Lindsay & Associates: Ian Lindsey of Lindsey and Associates has played an active role in the local community since 1979. He has been with RE/MAX, Vancouver Island's most advanced real estate business network since 1996. Marketing and selling residential, rural, strata, recreational, investment and project development real estate. Ian has received several awards recognizing his exceptional community commitment locally, as well as awards for outstanding performance and achievement from both RE/MAX International and the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board. You'll find true real estate professionals at ianlindsay. ca. 

Rockin Rhonda & The Uptown Blues Band: Here comes Peter. Here comes Dave. Oh listen. Bringing stories, making waves. No missing. Spinning tales in the podcast cave. So much laughs and insights everywhere. Peter and Dave, they're on the mics. Alright, join the ride. It's gonna feel just right.

Dave Graham: If that's rock and Ronda and the Uptown Blues band with the theme song for Peter and Dave, Then this must be the start of another Pulse 

Peter McCully: Community Podcast. Yes, this is where we feature the people and their stories from Central Vancouver Island. That's the voice 

Dave Graham: of a man who isn't shy. He's just holding back his awesomeness in order not to intimidate us all.

Peter McCully: It’s Peter McCully. 

Peter McCully: And that voice belongs to a guy who put the pro And procrastination. It's Dave Graham.  

Dave Graham: Thank you. Thank you very much. You know, Peter, I work at two speeds, slow and napping. But I'll tell you this, if I had been putting off putting together an emergency pack, I might be working on it now feverishly even after that last quake, huh?

Peter McCully: Yes, that was a 5.1 magnitude shaker that knocked some things off some shelves, but fortunately, little more than that, it wasn't the kind of an earthquake that will cause a tsunami. 

Dave Graham: You know, prior to this event, any shaking that I've ever felt was so subtle, I couldn't be sure. Maybe it was a tremor, maybe it was traffic, maybe my stereo's on too loud, but for this one, I was sitting in a restaurant. And then I realized that we were moving from side to side. People's phones then began chirping earthquake alarms. But you know what? Not one person yelled or made any noises of panic. Nobody dove under their table. I don't know what anybody else was thinking, but I had dessert to finish. I mean, it was chocolate mousse. Need I say more? 

Peter McCully: Speaking of shaking it up, Dave. Donald Trump likes to do that and with all that he said about Canada becoming the 51st state and Canada's sovereignty at risk We talked Captain Canada into coming out of retirement and went out to chat with you in our you said it segment We wanted to know how you're showing your patriotism these days.

Neil and Donna: Neil and Donna in a new space just so you know Okay, right into Canada. What else we got here? Product of Canada believe it or not product of Morocco. Hang on Product of Egypt. I don't know why I put anything in the bag. I think this was either Mexico or Guatemala. Do I pass? Yes. Now Dave has a question for you though.Have you always shown this kind of support for Canada? At one time the United States of America was considered a great friend. No longer. Have things irrevocably changed in your mind? At least for four years. At least. So that dictates your spending habits possibly for that long? You bet. Did you watch the game? I did. From Nanaimo Golf Club, I phoned my buddy in Nevada, he didn't want to talk to me. 

Dave Graham: It's flu and RSV season. We have an update from Dr. Tribesti Nguyen of  Island Health. 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: One of the common things that I hear is folks might say something like, I got the flu vaccine last year, and so I don't need to get it again this year. But we know that this also isn't quite true because it's one of those viruses that changes a lot. It mutates pretty quickly, it evolves pretty quickly. And so the actual influenza virus that circulates that moves around our community is different every single year, which is why we typically get a different influenza vaccine made every year for us. We use a different vaccine every year. That's why it's important because every year there's going to be an updated vaccine which is different than the one that you got last year. 

Peter McCully: Captain Canada, whom could be seen for many years in the Parksville, Qualicum Beach area, especially in the Canada Day parades and other events, has come out of retirement. Dave had a chance to chat with him. 

Dave Graham: As tensions rise over recent U. S. political rhetoric about annexing Canada, We sit down with the Great White North's Captain Canada to discuss this unprecedented situation. Captain Canada, thank you for joining us today. Oh, you're very welcome, Dave. Glad to be here. What was your initial reaction to U.S. politicians suggesting Canada could become the 51st state?

Captain Canada: Suggesting we're up for grabs is a bit much, even for our neighbours to the south. You know, Captain Canada, you don't look a day older than when you hung up the cape a few years back. Obviously, you feel strong enough to come out of retirement to show your patriotism.

Dave Graham: Have you seen a lot of folks showing their love of Canada lately? 

Captain Canada: Yes, actually, I have. I've seen a lot more flags being displayed and shoppers checking where things are made from. I believe we will be stronger as a result. 

Dave Graham: How do you respond to critics who say Canada is too polite to stand up for itself?

Captain Canada: Sorry, being polite doesn't mean passive. We're like a hockey player, respectful of the game, but ready to drop the gloves when necessary. From Nunavut to Nova Scotia, we're showing that our strength comes from our unity in diversity. 

Dave Graham: Your shield is made of indestructible Canadian maple. Any truth to rumours it's been upgraded recently?

Captain Canada: We've added a poutine based force field. But let's just say it's getting harder to mess with the true north. 

Dave Graham: Your arch nemesis claims Canada would benefit from American liberation. Your response? 

Captain Canada: The orange one needs to understand that different doesn't mean wrong. We are different, we are special, and it's worth protecting.

Dave Graham:  What's your message to young Canadians worried about these developments? Stay strong, stay proud, keep your stick on the ice and your head up. 

Captain Canada: We've faced challenges before, and we've always come through stronger in the long run. There's 

Dave Graham: speculation about American superheroes being dispatched for friendly patrols, quote unquote, in Canadian airspace.Thoughts? 

Captain Canada:They're welcome to join me for a double double on the boat, but they should call first. It's only polite. How do you 

Dave Graham: balance protecting Canadian interests while maintaining our reputation for peacekeeping? 

Captain Canada: It's like playing defense in hockey. You can be firm without being aggressive. On occasion, you need to hip check a super villain into the boards.

Dave Graham: Your power suit is rumored to run on pure Canadian spirit. What exactly does that mean? 

Captain Canada: It's powered by Nova Scotian roots to my home on Vancouver Island in addition to universal health care, multiculturalism, and Tim Horton's coffee. And maybe a little bit of maple syrup for an extra boost. 

Dave Graham: Any final words for those suggesting Canada should become the 51st state?

Captain Canada: Thanks for the offer, but we're not for sale. We're doing just fine standing on guard for thee. Though we're always happy to collaborate on saving the world, just as equals, eh?

Dave Graham:  Last question, if you could say one thing to all Canadians right now, what would it be? 

Captain Canada: Remember what makes us unique. Our strength isn't in military might or economic power alone.It's in our values, our diversity, and our ability to work together while staying true to who we are. Also, please stop leaving your toques in the phone booths. I keep getting them mixed up with mine. 

Dave Graham: Captain Canada, it's been a great honour. so much. Thank you, Dave. It's a pleasure. 

Peter McCully: And here's what listeners told Dave and Captain Canada about how they were showing their patriotism these days.

Man in the street interviews:

Cam and Wendy, we're from Bowser. Captain Canada! We have a question for you. You've been shopping today. Yes. Yes. Did you express your support of Canada with your dollars? Yes. Yeah. Always. Excellent. This is the standard practice for you? Yes. Yes. Very good. Well, it's accentuated now. Accentuated. Yes. We always have But now we make a concentrated effort. Yeah. We won't buy anything that isn't Canadian or from anywhere but the U. S. to be honest. Mm hmm. We're just feeling that way. 

Audrey. Parksville. I normally go for the best price, but now I'm definitely looking at what I'm buying before I put it in my cart. Did it take much longer? No. Did it cost much more? No. Because I'm finding that there's a lot of Canadian stuff on sale now. I think the stores are really cluing into what consumers want now, this shop canadian. 

How are you? I'm good, what are you guys doing here? Captain Canada! Dave has a question for you. He's wondering if you've changed your shopping habits as neighbours to the south. Absolutely. Canada or Mexico, that's it. Has this been a common practice or just lately you've Oh no, just lately. Go Canada, go! 

Neil and Donna nanoose. Just so you know. Okay. Product of Canada. What else we got here? Product of Canada. Believe it or not, product of Morocco. Hang on. Product of Egypt. I don't know why I put anything in the bag. I think this was either Mexico or Guatemala. Do I pass? Yes. Now Dave has a question for you though. Have you always shown this kind of support for Canada? At one time the United States of America was considered a great friend. Have things irrevocably changed in your mind? At least for four years. At least. So that dictates your spending habits possibly for that long? You bet. Did you watch the game? I did. From Nanaimo Golf Club. I phoned my buddy in Nevada. He didn't want to talk to me. 

Did you support Canada with your grocery dollars today? I didn't. I didn't know where my groceries came from. I just was hungry. Thankful for them. What's your first name? Derek. Where are you from, Derek? I'm born in Edmonton, Alberta, and moved here a few years ago so my daughter could grow up with the mountains and the oceans and stuff. Nice move. Thanks for chatting with us. God bless you. Take care. 

Suzanne.Suzanne. I live in Qualicum Beach. Our question for today is are you expressing your support for Canada with your spending dollars? Yes, absolutely. Everything that I pick is from Canada or otherwise. I'm being very choosing. Now, is this a recent development? Do you always practice this? I try. I try. But probably more so lately. So, we could probably predict your answer to your thoughts on Canada becoming the 51st state. Uh, no. No thank you. No, no nothing. No nothing. No. Just no. 

Anne and Peter, and we're from Nanoose. And our question today is, Are you directing your spending dollars in support of Canada? Yes, we are. Always, or just lately? It's only since this nonsense started, that we've changed our behavior. Have your thoughts of your sense of being a Canadian changed at all? Not mine, but I notice a lot of people feeling A lot more Canadian than they did two, three weeks ago. Isn't it great for us, though, to be perhaps expressing our patriotism a bit more? I think it's a good thing, yeah. 

Warren from Parksville. And Christina, yeah, from Parksvillel. Our question today is, are you expressing your patriotism with your dollars? Yes. Yes, we are. Yeah, fully, yeah. Now, has this been a recent development, or just more focused lately, or what? A little more focused. I want to shop local, spend my money in my local community, but now it's even more than ever, which is sad that it came to this. Yeah, same thing, more focused, and also trying to encourage people to close their Amazon accounts and shop local, support small business. People want to be patriotic about Canada, well that's something that we should be focusing on all the time, I feel. 

You look great! Thanks. Are you expressing your patriotism through your shopping dollars? Yes. Always have, or just more lately? Oh, way more lately. Never had to think about it before that. Yeah, yeah. Got lazy. So, do you feel you're just more patriotic now? Yeah, a blend of that and angry. Yeah, that's how she goes. No one likes a bully. Where are you from, Jim? Parksville. Thanks a lot. 

Could I ask what's your first name? Beverly. I'm still an American, after all these years, just because the paperwork was so complicated. And I had to go back to school and all those things. But now that things are like they are elsewhere, it's time. We've just been asking people if they've been using their shopping dollars to express their support of Canada. Well, the tomato came from Mexico. The toilet paper is made in Canada. Well, it says produced in Canada. I spent the last shopping trip in here with other little old ladies, helping them read labels. So people are really making an effort to buy Canadian, or not American, let's put it that way. You've already to become a Canadian. Well, yes, and it's the right time to do it because I can probably do my thing on Canada Day. Well, welcome to the club.

We're just out today asking if you are expressing your patriotism through your shopping dollars. I totally am. Yes, always have, just recently. Probably just recently. Mm-hmm . Do you feel more Canadian? I've always felt Canadian. 

Wayne Berwick. Parksville. And our question today is do you spend your dollars in a way as to express your patriotism, your supporting Canada? Yes. Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes. Always have.More recently. Yeah. I even canceled Facebook. Everything that's coming from the US I've canceled Non-alcoholic gin. I don't buy anymore 'cause it's all American. All the Canadian distilleries supply the rest of Canada but not the island, if you can believe that, for non alcoholics. So that's gotta be fixed. So you're making sacrifices here? Yes, definitely. 

Juliana. We live in Nanoose now. We moved here a year and a half ago.Wow. So today's question is, are you using your spending dollars in support of Canada? Damn right I am.  A lot more lately or always have? I love shopping local, so it's always been on my mind, but now I and vigilance, and I go out of my way to read and research in that direction. Absolutely.  Any other changes in habits or approaches since things have been changing south of the border? Travel plans, anything like that? That is significant. I'm a dual citizen, and I don't want to go into the States. I have family there, and I want to visit, but I'm really dragging my heels on that. My son's there, and my dad's there, and my mom's there. Yeah, so it's a big deal. Thank you so much for participating. My pleasure. Can I have a photo with you? Sure. 

So, are you expressing your patriotism with your shopping dollars? I'm trying, but today I couldn't because of the oranges or I can't grow oranges in Canada, right? But you're trying. I am. I do look at stuff, yeah. Now, is this a recent development or has it always sort of been part of your habits? I've always  been pissed off with Canada, because we, we can't seem to get anything made in this country, right? And maybe this will wake us up. 

I'm Dave, he's Peter, we're with the Pulse Podcast, with Captain Canada today, because we're talking about Canada and our sense of patriotism, and have you changed your shopping habits at all, lately? I look for Canadian, definitely. Yeah, prefer, buy Canadian over anywhere else. Now, is this a recent development, or always been this way? Uh, more so. 

We're here with Captain Canada because we're talking about Canada and our patriotism. Since Trump got in, we've been yelling more. Someone said to me yesterday, we're very complacent. And I said, you're right, we're too complacent. We should stick up for ourselves more. 

How are you? I'm good. If you don't mind, Dave's got a question for you. We are out today with Captain Canada inquiring as to your sense of Canadianism, patriotism. Are you changing your spending habits in support of Canada? Absolutely am. I will only buy made in Canada or imported from Italy or other provinces. Wow, that sounds pretty absolute. Very absolute. So, you drew a line in the sand. Is this just recently then? Something in particular just was the last straw? President Musk and Puppet Trump. I don't need to buy their products. There's nothing I have to have that's not Canadian. If it's not Canadian or imported, I can do without them. I'm not picky, I'll eat anything. I like leftovers too, so. Can I get your first name? Joanne. I'm from Parksville. 

This is a special day when we're out talking to people about their spending habits. Have they changed recently, supporting Canada? Absolutely. Yes. Always have, or just lately? Uh, I always have, but even more so now. Mm hmm. I'm not giving the orange brand any of my money. 

Today we're asking about people and their spending habits, and if they're spending more on Canadian goods kind of thing. I always have. I always look for BC, Canada products. And now I'm even more so. The only thing that I buy that's U. S. is my lemons and oranges. Today I was going to pick up some broccoli, but it was made in the U. S. Forget it. You know what? We have to support our country. We live in one of the best countries of the world. We're very, very fortunate, so. And it's not all the American people down there. It's just the government. So hopefully only four years. You know, United States has always been a partner with Canada. Like, they've always been like the big brother, and we've always worked well together. This is the first time in history. I've lived here all my life and I thought, we're so lucky to be here. Whereabouts are you from, Cheryl? I'm a live in Nanoose. You guys have a great day. 

Roy and Penny, we're from Parksville. Since the election, we've been watching all the products that we buy. And I'd say we're probably 95 percent Canadian if we can. Sometimes you gotta go the other way, but we try our best to do Canadian all the way. Are you then relenting and buying other non Canadian, or are you just sacrificing and saying, we'll do without? A little bit of both. We'll sacrifice a few things, like some fresh fruits that you get from the States, like oranges and things like that, that you can't get now and whatnot. But other than that, we try our best to buy Canadian all the way. 

Our question today is, are you expressing your sense of patriotism through your shopping dollars? No. No? Not at all. You guys gotta understand, boycotting anything at all, you know, that's absolutely stupid. Trump is the best thing that's happened in sliced bread.I'm a firm believer in what he does. He's a salesman. He's also a gambler. One good thing he's done about it, he put Trudeau to the boots. Also, I have a MAGA hat that my daughter doesn't let me wear. Anything else you want to know? What's your first name and where you're from? Murray. I live in San Periel and Parkville. And I am a Canadian, too. 

We're asking people today if they're expressing their patriotism through their shopping dollars. We are. Yes. Always have? Uh, not always, no. Until we start label things, and Canadian, and it brings it to your attention, and we put a few things back because they weren't. So a bit of a sacrifice on your part.Well, yes, I wanted it. I can't remember what it was. I guess I didn't want it that badly, but I put it back in. Where are you from? Peter and Mary, and we're from Kingston, Ontario. Kingston. Beautiful Kingston. Lovely. Escaping the winter, we decided not to go south this year. And stay in Canada. 

Captain Canada, The one and only.You're not Colonel Canada? Nor Governor. Dave has a question for you. We're asking today how people are expressing, if they are, their patriotism through their shopping dollars. By Canadian. There is. And is this a recent development for you or always been? Long time. Absolutely. 

We're with the captain today because we're talking about being Canadian and patriotic and and are you expressing your patriotism through your shopping dollars? Oh, absolutely. And I am delighted that the hockey match Went like it did. You know, bad luck. There aren't many people who are as Canadian as us, but, you know, they can keep trying. Whereabouts are you from, Carolyn? I'm right from Victoria. I've been here for 60 years. Oh, yes. But from before that, I was from England.

Are you expressing your patriotism through where you're spending your shopping dollars? I absolutely am. I'm looking for as many Canadian made, Canadian purchased Items as I can. There's going to always be things that you can't get that are not here in Canada, but doing my best to support the Canadian economy for sure. I'm going to put you on the spot. Are you denying yourself anything in order to not support American products?  Fresh berries. I just bought what I wanted before and now I'm thinking more of where that money is going and how we can support our Canadian farmers. So, in a sense, this could have a really good spin for Canadian producers and farmers, et cetera. One would hope it could have a very good spin, yeah. I think that's everybody's intent. It'll just depend on what happens with tariffs and the rest of it and how much we can do to make them feel that as little as possible. 

Are you using your shopping dollars in support of Canadian products? Damn right. Always or just more recently? More recently. So it sounds like you have had sort of an eye towards Canadian products in the past. Oh yeah. But now a true focus. You bet. If you said that I can't get it in Canada, I'm not going to have it for now.  Can't say that I have found anything just yet. 

Peter McCully: Captain Canada speaking his truth during these challenging times and looking very dapper as well.

Dave Graham: Yes. he was able to make that leotard work. Truly a remarkable Canadian with solid calves. Hey, thanks to Thrifty Foods, we have another winner with our Tickle  Trunk Contest.

Peter McCully: Cindy Lister of Parksville, congratulations. She knew that the Tickle Trunk was hidden in the most used indoor recreational facility in the area.That would be the Ravensong Aquatic Center. After 30 years, the facility is in need of work and expansion. to the tune of an estimated 30 million. 

Dave Graham: Yes, and what do you figure the odds are that that number will change? Hmm. It's time now to focus on our next Tickle Trunk hiding spot. This is a research and education facility operated by Vancouver Island University in Lighthouse Country. Hmm. It's a place of aquaculture research and marine science education. This is where you can interact with sea stars and sea cucumbers. And this is where you'll find the Tickle Trunk. 

Peter McCully: So, email your answer to contest at thepulsecommunity. ca, we'll randomly draw from the correct answers, and award a 25 gift certificate  from Thrifty Foods.

Thrifty Foods Parksville: At Thrifty Foods, we love to help nonprofits, charities, and schools. Our Thrifty Foods Smile Card Bulk Program allows organizations to immediately save up to 6 percent on the purchase of smile cards in bulk, allowing you to keep more money in your organization's pockets. Ask for details at Thrifty Foods in Parksville, a proud sponsor of the Pulse Podcast with Peter and Dave.

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Dave Graham: We welcome your input to the Pulse Community Podcast. After all, we're at our best when the conversation goes both ways, so we welcome your comment on something or anything you might have heard or thought of. You know the idea.

Peter McCully: Dave, we had a few emails and social media comments from listeners who said they as well had experienced a Bigfoot sighting. Perhaps you'd like to comment on that or something that you'd like to hear on the podcast or anything else for that matter. You can use the Speak to Us link. 

Dave Graham: To send us your message in your voice or just type us a note, follow the link in the story notes and on the contact page on our website, the pulse community.ca add your voice or words to the conversation. 

Peter McCully: In a future podcast, we're going to be hearing from a fellow podcaster, Laura Palmer of Port Alberni. Laura produces a podcast that stands out from what is a crowded field. I'm speaking of true crime. Tune in to hear about Laura and her Island Crime Podcast series now with Season 7.

Dave Graham: We are going to be hearing soon from Bob McDonald, the host of CBC's Quirks and Quirks. He has come out with a memoir. It is an inspiring story that describes overcoming significant obstacles on a journey to success. Bob tells his story in the book Just Say Yes, and he will be on a future episode. 

Peter McCully: Plus, we have news about this year's Parksville Beach Festival with Cheryl Dill and Lloyd Derry. The festival's far more than sand sculptures, and Duane Round will be coming on soon to talk about this spring's pop up recycling events. 

Dave Graham: Yes, pop up recycling. Thank goodness I'm going to make it to one of these this year. And I say this year because it's been piling up. My laundry room is being overrun by glass jars and styrofoam packaging. In fact, since I got my heat pump put in, and I'm not saying what year that happened, and the old furnace taken out, the spot where the furnace was is now filled with packaging that will not be accepted by the standard service. So thank goodness. For this opportunity to divert material otherwise destined for the landfill and get it out of my house. More about that with Duane on a future Pulse Community Podcast. 

Peter McCully: While the most recent provincial statistics indicate a drop in the number of COVID cases, there has been an increase in numbers related to the cases of flu and RSV. We have a doctor in the house to discuss further. Marilyn, who is in the green room?

Marilyn: Medical health officer resident Dr. Tribesty Nguyen of Island Health is in the green room. Dr. Nguyen updates what's happening on Vancouver Island with the flu, RSV, and COVID viruses. 

Peter McCully: Thanks for joining us on the podcast today, doctor.  

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: Thank You for having me Peter. 

Peter McCully: What are the current trends we're seeing with the flu and RSV on Vancouver Island compared to last year at this time?

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: For the flu, which is influenza virus, what we're seeing on the island, and this is the same across B. C. as well, is that the rates are actually currently on the rise. We're still seeing more and more people get sick with the flu. We're not over the hill yet, so to speak. So that's what's happening right now.

When we compare this trend to what was happening last year, there's a couple of things to note for one thing. We're seeing that the peak of the flu season is happening later this year than it happened last year. So what this really means is that people are getting sick later into the year. Um, just as an example, last year or peak of the flu season was around the end of December, beginning of January, but this year, you know, we're now way through February and we're still seeing a rise in cases.

So people are getting sicker later into the year. That's one change that's happening this year. The other thing is that just overall, we're seeing more cases. The peak of this year, you know, the current period that we're in as more people getting sick and the peak last year. And so those are just some of the general trends.

I think what this really means is that we're not out of the woods yet, this time of the year for this year, which is why it's still important and still relevant for people today to get vaccinated. You know, you can still go to the pharmacy, you can still get your influenza vaccine, it's still free, and it's still good to get today because cases are still rising.

When we're looking at RSV, which was the other virus that you were talking about, it's another respiratory virus, what we're seeing there is something a little bit different. So we're seeing that the cases there are starting to decrease a little bit. Less and less people are starting to get sick. We're kind of over the hill, you can kind of say that.

That being said, though, people are still getting sick. It's not like it's gone. I think it's still important for people to continue to practice their good hygiene practices, you could say. You know, washing their hands a lot. Making sure that when you're coughing, you're coughing into your sleeve or into your elbow.

Staying home when you're sick. For RSV, even though it's starting to decline, I don't think we can take our foot off the gas yet, so to speak, right? We need to keep doing what we're doing. That's what's happening with RSV. Could you take us through what's been happening with COVID this season? COVID has been on the decrease.

It's actually been declining recently, so we're seeing less and less COVID cases in the community. For this year, it's actually been declining since the past summer, so we've been seeing kind of a declining trend over the last six months. That's We're seeing less and less people get sick, less and less people in the hospital from COVID, for example.

But the thing about COVID is that we're not quite sure what the seasonality of COVID is going to be like. So when we talk about influenza, the flu, and RSV, usually that's a seasonal type of pattern. With COVID, we're still a little bit unsure about it. So again, with the influenza, I'd say that it's still important to get vaccinated for COVID, because even though it's on the decline, some people are still getting sick, particularly older people, people who have some underlying medical conditions, people who are immunocompromised, for example.

So people are still getting sick from these. I 

Peter McCully: was just going to ask you, Dr. Nguyen, what populations are currently most vulnerable to severe outcomes from those respiratory viruses? 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: It's different for each virus, but what I would say, and this is in very, very general terms, we usually see the younger folks, so younger children, it's older folks, so people who are, you know, 65 years and above, it's people who have other medical conditions.

Things like lung diseases, you know, chronic CLPD. People with asthma, people with heart disease, people with immunocompromising conditions. These are the people that we see most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses. That's a kind of like a blanket statement for those kind of different vulnerable groups.

Each of the viruses, though, looked a little bit differently. For example, COVID is a disease that we see older people have a greater risk of severe disease rather than younger people. So younger people less so for COVID. For RSV, it's almost the opposite. So severe disease is actually mostly seen in younger people.

Those between zero and five years old for example. We still see severe outcomes with older people as well, but most of the time it's in younger people, if that makes sense. The flu, influenza, is kind of in between. We see older people have most of the severe consequences, severe disease. We also see some young people have severe disease as well.

It's a little bit different between each of the viruses, but in general. I'd say the four kind of major risk groups are young people, people who are older and 65 years old, people with those underlying medical conditions I was talking about, and people who are immunocompromised. And so those are the big vulnerable groups.

Peter McCully: Doctor, you mentioned that flu was pretty active right now. Could you talk about the effectiveness of this season's flu vaccine and how it matches up against the current circulating strains? 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: So this is a great question. We are only really halfway through the influenza season, so we only really have half of the data so far this year.

But the preliminary data that we have, which is up until mid January, it's showing that those who get the influenza vaccine, it's reduced their risk for needing to see a doctor by about half, a little more than half. In other words, you know, if you get the vaccine, you're half as likely to get so sick that you need to be seeking care.

You're so sick that you need to see the doctor, or you're so sick that you need to go to a clinic, or the urgent primary care center, or so sick you need to see the hospital, so it halves your risk for that. If we look at the data for the past 10 years, this is pretty typical. So about half. What we're seeing this year is a pretty typical, the last 10 years, it's kind of ranged between 40 and 70 percent protection.

I'm not a biochemist, so I can't get too technical details, but when we look at the studies that talk about matching, what they're really looking at matching is, you know, at the very, very, very, very small, tiny genetic sequences. The way that we can maybe kind of think about it is if you have two different books.

One book only differs in one sentence. You can say that those two books are not the same book. They don't match each other perfectly. But if you have two students, one student is studying off of one book, another student is studying off of the other book, and they go write an exam. They're both probably going to pass.

They're both probably going to do pretty much the same in the exam. And so that's kind of the way that we can think of the matching of the vaccine with the virus as well. The vast majority of the vaccine is still effective. And that's why I think we still see a little bit above half of people reducing their risk for having to go to the hospital, having to see their doctor, getting so sick that they need to do that.

So I wouldn't worry too much about whether the vaccine is matching or not. I would just get the vaccine. 

Peter McCully: That's a great analogy, by the way. Well, what patterns are you seeing in terms of co infections? You know, people getting multiple respiratory viruses at the same time. 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: I think if we look into the data, we look into the literature, the numbers are going to vary.

We see maybe about 10 to 20 percent of respiratory infections have co infection. When we get infected with a virus like the flu or with COVID or with RSV, Our body is working really hard to fight that infection and our immune systems becoming really active. And because of that, our body becomes a little bit more vulnerable to other infections.

And so that's why it's easier for another respiratory virus to kind of come in and also infect you at the same time. What may be more significant though? It is not a co infection with another virus, but actually what we call a secondary infection with a bacteria, because many types of bacteria will cause a disease, a secondary infection that can become very severe.

So there's lots of bacteria out there, there's pneumonia bacteria, there are bacteria that cause meningitis, these bacteria, when our bodies are vulnerable from fighting an infection. We talked about vulnerable groups earlier, so if we have underlying medical conditions, maybe we're already immunocompromised, maybe we're a little bit older and our immune system is a little bit weaker.

It's easier for these bacteria to cause an infection. On the positive side of things is that we have vaccines. We have vaccines to protect against most of these bacteria. We have vaccines against pneumonia. We have vaccines against meningitis. We have vaccines against haemophilus influenza bacteria, and these are all free vaccines.

They're all publicly funded. They're already a part of our routine childhood vaccine schedule as well. Adults who have missed these vaccines can still go get them for free. So it's available to protect ourselves against these secondary material infections or co infections. 

Peter McCully: You mentioned that COVID was on the decline and the flu was on the increase. Could you talk about the current vaccination rates on Vancouver Island? What are you seeing? 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: On the island, and this is kind of also very similar across B. C., this year, we only have data up until currently. So it's only really only about half the year, half of the season, you could say. We are currently seeing for COVID, about 28.

5 percent of the population have gone to get the COVID vaccine this year. That doesn't include previous years. That just means this year. If we compare that to last year, we had about 36 and a half the year before that. We had about 39 percent and that is for the whole year. Again, remember, we're just talking about half the year right now.

So, you know, by the end of this year, maybe the numbers will increase a little bit. But I think what that shows is that. Year over year, people are tending to get less vaccinated. That's very similar to influenza as well. Halfway through the year, we've had about 31 percent of people get an influenza vaccine.

It was a little higher last year, it was a little higher the year before. People are not getting vaccines as they used to in the previous years. I think what that causes is the risk for diseases in our community to spread, to increase. I think it's really important to get vaccines because, say I go and get the influenza vaccine, I'm protecting myself from getting severe disease, I'm protecting myself from having to go to the hospital, but I'm also protecting my loved ones.

I'm protecting my mom, I'm protecting my grandma, who might be more vulnerable to these diseases. I'm protecting my family, my friends, my co worker, because when I get vaccinated, I'm less likely to give these diseases to the people that are around me. And so, the risk that we run if we continue to go down this hill of declining vaccination rates.

Peter McCully: What are the most popular misconceptions you're running into from patients about respiratory viruses? 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: In my line of work, I don't really see patients a whole lot anymore, so most of the time I kind of hear these stories from my co workers or the nurses that I'm working with. But one of the common things that I hear is folks might say something like, I got the flu vaccine last year, and so I don't need to get it again this year.

But we know that this also isn't quite true because it's one of those viruses that changes a lot. It mutates pretty quickly, it evolves pretty quickly. And so the actual influenza virus that circulates and moves around our community is different every single year, which is why we typically get a different influenza vaccine made every year for us.

We use a different vaccine every year. That's why it's important because every year there's going to be an updated vaccine, which is different than the one that you got last year. And so it's important to kind of keep up to date and keep getting updated. So you're protecting yourself against different types of strains.

The other common thing that I've heard is some people will say, Oh, I have some leftover antibiotics. I'm going to take some antibiotics to treat my flu or my cold. The flu is a virus. Farming cold is also a virus. And you can't use an antibiotic to heal a virus. So viruses and bacteria are a very different thing.

So that's another misconception that, you know, antibiotics are something that we can use for flus and for, um, cold and for respiratory viruses. So if you are sick with the flu or with the cold and you feel sick enough that you think you need to look for care. You should go see a doctor first. Go to your family doctor, go to a walk in clinic, emergency and primary care center, go to the hospital if you really, really need to.

Folks can also call 811 as well. It's a free 24 hour nursing hotline that you can also call for health information and advice. Seek that care just to make sure that you're getting the right treatment for what it is that you have, because antibiotics are the solution for everything. 

Peter McCully: Dr. Nguyen, I can't let you go without asking you about the avian flu or the bird flu.

It's pretty hard not to watch the evening news without hearing something about avian flu in a poultry flock in some parts of British Columbia, particularly south of the border. There seems to be a lot going on. How worried should we be about the avian flu? 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: That's a great question as well. I would say in general.

The general public, like myself, for example, I don't really work on an army, I work with chickens, which is probably most people in our community, the risk to the general public is very low. In Canada, we don't see avian flu transmitted from person to person. We really only see it circulating, as you mentioned, on poultry farms.

You know, between flocks of birds in very rare circumstances. For example, earlier this year, we did have a human case. So the virus did come from a bird to infect a human, but it kind of stops there. It doesn't spread from person to person. We haven't seen that yet. And so that's why the risk to the public is generally pretty low.

I know that our farms are monitored very, very regularly. There's surveillance programs that, you know, our chicken farms are going under testing. And so that's being watched very carefully as well. 

Peter McCully: Dr. Tribesti Nguyen, thanks for your time today. 

Dr. Tribesty Nguyen: Thanks so much for having me, Peter, and the opportunity to chat with you about that.

Dave Graham: Dr. Tribesty Nguyen on the Pulse Community Podcast. Common medical advice has changed over the years. Coughs and sneezes now go into your elbow, not your hand. Used to be just cover your mouth or nose if you cough or sneeze and I guess you wipe your hand on your pants or something. That's the old way.Science has advanced in the years since I was a kid. Remember the old adage, feed a cold, starve a fever? Uh, apparently that's, that's just an old wives tale. Oh, am I allowed to still say that? Anyway, hydration always a key element if you're feeling ill for whatever reason. Drink lots. As for feeding or starving, forget about it. Modern science has revealed all and it says if you're hungry, eat. 

Oceanside CWeed: Oceanside Cweed. That little pot shop is Parksville's first licensed cannabis store. Since April 2022, Cweed is under new ownership. With a product expert at the helm, that includes two decades of retail mastery and seven years in the cannabis industry, Cweed is a legacy in the making, with cannabis products regulated by Health Canada. Community minded Cweed is a member of the Parksville Chamber of Commerce, the Parksville Downtown Business Association, and the Retail Cannabis Council of British Columbia. Those 19 plus can drop by the store at 154 Middleton Avenue next to Tablet Pharmacy. Open Monday to Friday, 9 a. m. to 8 p. m. Weekends and holidays, 9 a. m. to 7 p. m. Visit the online store at cweedoceanside. ca. 

Peter McCully: A parallel project to the Pulse Community Podcast is an offering for the younger listeners. It's called Skookum Kid Stories. Original stories. With new ones being added regularly, that includes the adventures of Dave and the Mellow Submarine, as narrated by Dave Graham. Coming soon, Dave and his crew work to repair a communications cable to Lasqueti Island. 

Dave Graham: Our other series follows the fun with Peter and Gracie the Eskimo Dog, narrated by Peter McCully. And if you happen to have a story idea, we hope you would share it with us. Maybe it'll show up in a future Skookum Kids Story. To reach us for that, or anything else Follow the links on the contact page on our website, thepulsecommunity. ca. 

Ian Lindsay & Associates: Ian Lindsey of Lindsey and Associates has played an active role in the local community since 1979. He has been with RE/MAX, Vancouver Island's most advanced real estate business network since 1996. Marketing and selling residential, rural, strata, recreational, investment and project development real estate. Ian has received several awards recognizing his exceptional community commitment locally, as well as awards for outstanding performance and achievement from both RE/MAX International and the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board. You'll find true real estate professionals at ianlindsay. ca. 

Dave Graham: So, I'm wondering if anyone has a story to share from the recent earthquake that was centered on the mainland but felt on the island. 

Peter McCully: Where were you? Luckily, there won't be any stories of significant damage from all of this, Dave, but we would like to hear what the experience was like.

Dave Graham: I felt a sense of uncertainty and imbalance for a time after the shaking. Not literally feeling imbalanced like I might fall over, but feeling that if I cannot count on the ground being steady and still, what else might happen?

Peter McCully:  It's the first time I've ever felt an earthquake many times. In the office, folks have said, Did you feel that? And I felt nothing, but this one actually made my desk shake at home. I'm not eager for that to happen again anytime soon, though, I'll tell you. A reminder that Episode 8 of the Pulse Podcast featured a chat with Taimi Mulder of Victoria, a seismologist, if you'd like to hear what she has to say about the Big One. We've run out of time for this episode, so Dave, would you like to join me for today's special in the cafeteria? It's on me. 

Dave Graham: Hey, sure. I've asked Mabel to lighten up on the fried food, maybe feature more salads and fish and veggies, you know, the healthy stuff. Really? After seeing Captain Canada rockin that spandex, I realized that I really need to look at some changes in my diet.

Peter McCully:  Well, good for you. 

Dave Graham: No, really, I'm going to start making healthier food choices. Wow, you sound serious about this. Oh yeah, I'm going to put my foot down at lunch today, I'm going to tell Mabel, No, Mabel, I will not have a third slice of pie, thank you. 

Rockin Rhonda & The Uptown Blues Band: Here comes Peter, here comes Dave, oh listen. Bringing stories, making waves. No missing. Spinning tales in the podcast cave. So to speak. Laughs and insights everywhere. What a treat. Peer and Dave. They're on the mics all right. Join the ride. It's gonna feel just right.