Misleading call for masks, gloves donations at Penticton hospital

Photo: Contributed

A misleading meme is circulating on South Okanagan social media platforms, claiming that the Penticton Regional Hospital is calling for mask and glove donations.

An image circulating on social media in the South Okanagan claims donations of personal protective equipment are being requested at the Penticton Regional Hospital, but the provincial health authority says this is not the case. 

The image shows a plea to donate items to the PRH, including a specific call for glove, surgical masks, safety goggles and face shields, and advertises a hashtag: "#ProtectPentictonHealthcareWorkers."

It has been popping up in multiple popular regional community Facebook groups. 

But according to Interior Health, while there is a shortage of personal protective equipment province-wide, donations won't be accepted right now. 

"We are looking into all potential options including donations; however at this time, we are not asking for donations," reads an emailed statement from IH communications staff member Susan Duncan Wednesday afternoon. 

IH adds that they encourage citizens to watch the daily provincial health officer briefing at 3 p.m. for the latest COVID-19 information, including updates on equipment needs. 

The daily briefing is broadcast live on Castanet each afternoon.