The North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) has declared a high risk influenza statusĀ and is experiencing an outbreak on one of the inpatient units.
Manager of Infection Prevention & Control Mark Daniw explains that aĀ high risk designation is done as a proactive measure to help protect patients from increased risk of infections. The status is meant to encourage influenza vaccination by the public. Additionally,Ā staff will follow heightened infection control measures, such as hand washing and effective use of personal protective equipment.
Health Centre officials say this change in status reflects the increase of flu-like activity currently seen both in the community and within the hospital. The Health Centre has one unit in the facility currently in outbreak status. Full outbreak control measures have been implemented.
The Health Centre is not closed to visitors but they are asked to follow any instructions posted throughout the Health Centre about the outbreak and raised status.
Daniw says that visitors may want to consider getting their flu shot. Visitors should postpone visits if they are feeling unwell to avoid spreading the virus to those who may be more vulnerable.
For more information on how to protect yourself from the flu, click here.
