The Norovirus outbreak first declared on Sept. 21 at the Herbert & District Integrated Health Facility will remain in place throughout the Thanksgiving long weekend, with exceptions made on an individual basis for ‘end of life’ situations, the Cypress Health region announced Oct. 5.
The outbreak was originally declared by the Medical Health Officer on Sept. 21 due to several acute inpatients experiencing signs and symptoms. Since that time, enhanced cleaning and infection control processes have been initiated in an attempt to remove the virus from the facility. The Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory confirmed a positive result of Norovirus shortly after the outbreak was declared.
As of Oct. 5, five long-term care residents are experiencing signs and symptoms, therefore no visitors are allowed on the long-term care side of the facility. Where ‘end of life’ situations exist, families can call ahead to the facility and speak to the Long Term Care Nurse in charge to discuss the visitation options available.
Emergency outpatient and acute inpatient services remain available as per normal.
The Cypress Health Region would like to remind the public of the importance of frequent and proper hand-washing, and of staying home when ill, to help reduce the spread of illness and viruses.
