Gastro outbreak declared at SLMHC

Tim Brody - Editor

The Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) has declared an outbreak of gastroenteritis (gastro) and put precautions in place during the outbreak.
On Oct. 18, SLMHC communications specialist Irene Dube shared on the Sioux Lookout & Area Events & Services Facebook page, “In an effort to minimize the potential spread of gastroenteritis, SLMHC has put precautions in place. These precautions include the suspension of all elective admissions, non-urgent transfers and social activities at the health centre until the advisory is lifted.”
The Health Centre also shared on it’s website, “Scheduled appointments are not cancelled, but we strongly discourage non-urgent access to health centre services during this outbreak.”
The Health Centre further shared, “SLMHC is urging people to refrain from visiting patients at the hospital during the outbreak. If you must visit, you will be required to check in at the nursing desk before patient contact. Visitors may be asked to wear personal protective equipment (such as a gown, gloves and mask) before entering a patient room. All measures are being put into place to protect the patients, visitors, staff and physicians at SLMHC.
“When entering or exiting the hospital, patient care areas, and any patient room, please wash your hands or use one of the hand-sanitizing stations located throughout the facility.
“If you are experiencing symptoms of nausea or diarrhoea (and do not require medical attention) please do not enter the building.”
The Health Centre apologized for the inconvenience and thanked people for their patience.
The Health Centre will advise the public when the advisory is lifted.
People can also visit www.slmhc.on.ca for more information and the latest updates.