Dr. Victoria Elizabeth Cook – Allergist / Immunologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Victoria Elizabeth Cook is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at an allergy and immunology clinic in Victoria in Victoria, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality and safety in patient care. Dr. Cook’s practice focuses on diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment strategies to improve her patients' quality of life.

She graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 2012. Following medical school, she completed residency training, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Dr. Cook is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology. She holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education.

Dr. Cook’s professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. She is dedicated to empowering her patients with knowledge about their conditions and self-management strategies. Utilizing the latest advancements and evidence-based approaches, her goal is to minimize symptoms, prevent severe reactions, and enhance overall well-being. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive and integrated care. All her patient communication and care are provided in English, with a compassionate and supportive approach tailored to each individual's needs.

Dr. Victoria Cook provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:

Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies

Dr. Cook manages accurate diagnosis is key to implementing effective avoidance and emergency treatment strategies.

• Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): Often associated with tick bites.
• Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Conditions involving abnormal accumulation or activation of mast cells, leading to symptoms like flushing, itching, hives, abdominal pain, and anaphylaxis.
• Latex Allergy: Requires strict avoidance of latex-containing products.

Immunodeficiency Disorders

Dr. Cook manages patients who often experience recurrent, severe, or unusual infections, requiring specialized diagnosis and management.

• Recurrent Infections (Evaluation for Underlying Immunodeficiency): Investigation of individuals who suffer from infections more frequently, severely, or for longer durations than expected.
• Humoral (Antibody) Deficiencies: Disorders where the body doesn't produce enough antibodies (immunoglobulins) to fight off infections effectively.
• Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Managed with immunoglobulin replacement, prophylactic antibiotics, and sometimes stem cell transplant.

Respiratory Allergies

Dr. Cook manages allergic reactions affecting the airways, commonly triggered by airborne allergens like pollens, dust mites, molds, and animal dander.

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Treated with antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and allergen immunotherapy.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Managed with eye drops (antihistamine, mast cell stabilizer) and allergen avoidance.
• Chronic Sinusitis (Allergy-Related): Management involves treating the allergic component and may include nasal corticosteroids or saline rinses.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Victoria Cook is necessary.

• Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): Aims to increase the threshold for reaction and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions.
• Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Improving quality of life for patients with respiratory allergies.
• Management of Secondary Immunodeficiencies: Monitoring immune function.
• Management of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Strategies to control flare-ups and improve skin health.
• Drug Allergy Evaluation and Management (including Desensitization): Identification of safe alternative medications.
• Insect Sting (Venom) Allergy Diagnosis and Immunotherapy: Prescription of epinephrine auto-injectors.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Cook.

All allergy and immunology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) and relevant international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Cook practices primarily at an allergy and immunology clinic located in the heart of Victoria’s well-established medical community. The clinic is situated in a friendly neighbourhood close to the Coho and Clipper Ferry Terminals, making it easily accessible for patients arriving by ferry or public transit. The Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit) provides convenient bus access to the area. The clinic is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, offering a professional and supportive environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. The clinic’s location ensures a comfortable setting where patients can receive comprehensive allergy and immunology services in a welcoming environment.

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Cook?

Dr. Cook treats a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions. Common ones include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, food allergies, drug allergies, insect sting allergies, atopic dermatitis (eczema), urticaria (hives), angioedema, and primary immunodeficiency diseases. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Cook?

For most consultations with Dr. Cook that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), a referral from your family doctor is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. Some specialized allergy clinics or services might have different referral processes, so it's always good to check with their office. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 595-3744.

Are services from Dr. Cook covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Cook, such as consultations, diagnostic allergy testing (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens when indicated), and management of asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Consultations with an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Cook, as well as medically necessary diagnostic tests (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens) and management of conditions like asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets/drops) and some newer biologic medications may have specific coverage criteria or require special authorization. It is recommended to confirm coverage details with Dr. Cook's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Does Dr. Cook offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?

Allergen immunotherapy is a key treatment offered by specialists like Dr. Cook for certain allergies. Whether through allergy shots or sublingual options, this therapy aims to modify your immune response to allergens, leading to long-term symptom relief. Dr. Cook would assess your specific allergies and discuss the benefits and process of immunotherapy if it's appropriate.

When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Cook?

You should consider seeing an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Cook if you experience persistent allergy symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes), asthma that is difficult to control, recurrent infections, severe reactions to foods, insect stings, or medications, or have chronic skin conditions like eczema or hives. A referral from your family doctor is typically required.

3200 Shelbourne St Ste 130, Allergy Victoria
Victoria, BC V8P 5G8

Office Phone: (250) 595-7844 | Office Fax: (250) 595-3744

Dr. Cook is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Cook, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Cook's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/334786/Cook%2CVictoria