Interior Health says the emergency room at the Barriere Health Centre is closed today, Oct. 5, due to a staff shortage.

People who need emergency care are still being told to call 911, or 811 to speak to a registered nurse if they are not sure what services they need.

The closest emergency department, should Barriere and area residents need it, is Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, which is open around the clock.

Interior Health says the Barriere Health Centre remains open for other services and appointments.

“Interior Health apologizes for this temporary interruption to normal services,” the statement said. “We anticipate the emergency department will open Wednesday, Oct. 6.”