Cambridge Memorial Hospital, in consultation with the Region of Waterloo Public Health, has declared an enteric outbreak in its Wing B, Level 5, inpatient Mental Health Unit.
Enteric outbreaks are declared when three or more patients become infected with the disease while they are in hospital. At this time five patients are sick. As is the hospital’s procedure, all admitted patients with symptoms are put in isolation. Staff are also taking extra precautions and the hospital is following outbreak protocols, like doing extra cleaning in the unit and throughout the hospital. Visitor restrictions are in effect for this unit – only one visitor per patient is allowed at one time.
CMH’s outbreak status will be reviewed next week when no additional patients are confirmed with a healthcare associated infection for five (5) days after the last case.
Enteric and respiratory illnesses such as the flu are common at this time of year. With respect to visiting a loved one in hospital or long-term care facility:
- Stay home if you have symptoms of a cold, influenza, stomach virus or are generally not feeling well. The symptoms you need to watch for include fever, a new or worse cough, sore throat, headaches, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and fatigue;
- Regularly wash and sanitize your hands using an alcohol-based hand cleanser before, during and after your visit.
These precautions will protect you and reduce the chance of passing an infection to patients and your family.
