Patients and visitors going to a Mississauga hospital are warned that an unwanted interloper has also arrived. An outbreak of a flu-like virus has closed two wards at
Credit Valley Hospital and put the emergency room in gridlock.
At least 32 people have become ill with
norovirus, but no one has died. The bug causes nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea and usually clears up on its own within 48 hours. However, the hospital must have three consecutive days with no new outbreaks before they can open up those two wards.
Doctors, nurses and hospital staff are allowed in and out - it's only closed to visitors. But everyone is taking extra precautions: in addition to wearing disposable gloves, they're also donning gowns on top of their clothes.
"You can have no symptoms at all, but be carrying the virus," notes Dr. Alicia Sarabia of Credit Valley. "The elderly that are already fragile, and people that have compromised immune systems, people that are unable to mount a sufficient response to the infection," may catch this bug. Some patients scheduled for release are being kept an extra day or two out of fear that they may infect others.
Because it takes several days to confirm that a patient has gastrointestinal illness, several patients are being kept in isolation. There has been minimal disruption to surgeries, but Dr Sarabia admits, "We're feeling some pressures in the emergency room."
Some patients arriving in the emergency Wednesday night and into Thursday morning were left lying on stretchers in the hallways.
HOW IS IT SPREAD?
Anyone can get the virus by direct contact with an infected person or by coming in contact with objects contaminated by an infected person. This type of gastrointestinal illness is usually spread by touching infected material and transferring the virus to your mouth.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.
HOW SERIOUS IS IT?
At this time of year, it is normal for healthcare facilities to experience a few isolated staff and patient cases of viral gastroenteritis. While the virus does not cause severe illness, people whose health is already compromised are likely to be more affected. That is why it is very important to prevent the spread of the virus in hospitals.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT?
This type of illness usually lasts for about two days. Treatment includes plenty of fluids, rest and isolation of patients with symptoms. It is important to know that patients are contagious for 48 hours after their symptoms stop.
HOW CAN I HELP?
The best way to protect yourself from getting sick is by practicing good hand washing and hygiene. If you develop symptoms, please do not visit the hospital until you are better. If you have any concerns about how you are feeling, you should consult your family physician.
People who are ill should try to avoid preparing or handling food for others. Whenever possible, they should also use a separate bathroom.
More information on the various forms of gastrointestinal illness is available by contacting the Region of Peel's Public Health Department at (905) 799-7700. If community members have any concerns, they should contact their family physician or the local health department.
WHAT IS THE HOSPITAL DOING TO CONTROL THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS?
We have taken the necessary steps to help avoid spread of the virus, including isolating patients who are experiencing symptoms and treating their symptoms. Our Infection Prevention and Control team is monitoring all areas of the hospital. We have communicated information to families and visitors throughout the hospital asking them not to visit if they are ill.
IF A UNIT IS CLOSED DUE TO AN OUTBREAK, WHEN WILL IT BE RE-OPENED?
The virus is contagious for 48 hours after the symptoms stop. A unit is re-opened when there have been no new cases for a minimum of three consecutive days. We will continue to provide updates on any situation at the hospital.
Courtesy
Credit
Valley