South West Health reminds people to please stay home, and not visit friends or family in hospital if you are feeling ill.
There are cases in the community of gastro-intestinal illness – diarrhea and vomiting. It is important that people who are sick or feeling unwell should stay away from the hospital in order to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to patients.
At this time, South West Health does not plan to close any hospital units or restrict visitors as a result of the gastro-intestinal illness in the community. However, we are monitoring the situation closely.
Family members coming to the hospital to visit patients are reminded to wash their hands thoroughly and often, and to use hand sanitizer regularly. Hand sanitizer is available throughout the hospital. Good hand hygiene is the best way to prevent the spread of infection.
Symptoms of gastro-intestinal illness are: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps. Other symptoms may include: fever, headache, chills, muscle aches and fatigue (a general sense of tiredness).
If you are feeling ill, and your symptoms become severe, please call your family physician or visit the nearest open emergency department.
People can also call 811 to speak to a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
People can find more information on the Health Canada website.
