The Hospital remains in outbreak. The enteric outbreak was called as three or more patients on the medical/surgical unit have experienced gastro-like (nausea, vomiting) symptoms.
In order to declare the outbreak over, the Hospital requires 5 consecutive days without a new patient or staff case.
Temiskaming Hospital is asking for the public’s cooperation with the following to help minimize the risk of transmission to and from patients, visitors and staff:
- All in-patient areas of the hospital are closed to visitors until further notice. Exceptions are made on compassionate grounds for direct family members of palliative and pediatric patients, as well as the Obstetrics Department.
- All other areas of the hospital including, outpatient appointments (i.e. Clinic, Diagnostic Imaging) and surgical procedures are continuing. The Emergency Department remains open.
- Individuals with cold, flu or gastro-like symptoms (cough, fever, chills, fatigue, headaches, sneezing, runny nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) or have been in contact with someone who has, are not to visit any patients at the Hospital.
- Do not bring children, elderly or health compromised family members to visit at the Hospital.
- Handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread of germs. Hand hygiene is strongly encouraged both before and after a visit to the Hospital.
The Timiskaming Health Unit is working with the Hospital in ensuring best practices are being followed during this time.
Temiskaming Hospital will continue to update the public on the outbreak.