NVH Newsletter February 2026

Respiratory Virus Season

After a slow start to the year, we are now thick of respiratory virus season. We have seen a steady presence of colds and influenza throughout January and February. While handwashing and staying home when you feel unwell are essential practices, vaccination remains a powerful tool in protecting our neighbors. Flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines are still available.

Hospital Survey:

We recently welcomed the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) for a routine survey of our facility. These unannounced inspections are a standard part of hospital operations, designed to ensure that we continue to meet the high health and safety standards established by state law. During their visit, a multidisciplinary team of surveyors spent several days on-site, walking through our clinical and public areas, reviewing medical records, and interviewing staff to observe our daily practices in action. While the final written report is still being processed, we are encouraged by the preliminary results shared during the exit interview. The surveyors identified only a few minor opportunities for improvement, which we are already working to address as part of our ongoing commitment to providing the highest quality care for our community.

American Heart Month:

February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease. As the leading cause of death in the United States, heart health is a priority for our community. We encourage everyone to take small steps toward a healthier lifestyle by focusing on nutritious eating, regular physical activity, and stress management. Monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels is also vital, as nearly half of U.S. adults live with high blood pressure. If you have questions about your heart health, please reach out to your primary care provider to discuss your options and preventative screenings.

Scholarship Opportunity:

The North Valley Community Health Association scholarship application period is now open. We encourage local students pursuing careers in healthcare to apply.

Upcoming Board Meeting:

The next regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners is scheduled for February 26, 2026. These meetings are open to the public, and we welcome community interest in the governance of our hospital district. Agendas and minutes can be found on our website.