THUNDER BAY – An Influenza A outbreak has been declared on unit 1A at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (the Hospital). All patients and staff are being closely monitored for signs of infection and treated accordingly.
“As always, our number one priority is the safety of patients and their families, staff, volunteers and visitors,” said Dr. Stewart Kennedy, EVP Medical, Academics, & Regional Programs at the Hospital. “Infection control measures are in place in order to reduce the spread of infection.”
Visitors will not be permitted on unit 1A during the Influenza A outbreak unless they have been identified as a patient’s designated Care Partner. Patients determine who their Care Partners are. It may be a family member, friend, or significant other who provides physical, psychological, or emotional support. Care Partners support and participate in the care of the patient.
Individuals identified as Care Partners must also provide documentation that shows they have been recently immunized with a flu shot. Only one Care Partner may be present at any one time during the influenza outbreak.
A visitor is a guest or family member of the patient, who has not been identified by the patient as a Care Partner and adheres to regular visiting hours.
It is strongly recommended that people stay home and avoid visiting patients in the Hospital during this outbreak, or any other health care facility if they are experiencing any signs of influenza-like illness. These include coughing, fever, sore throat, chills and runny nose.
One of the most effective ways to prevent and reduce the spread of infections is by using proper hand hygiene. The Hospital reminds people to wash their hands often for at least 15 seconds with soap and warm water, or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
