COVID-19 Outbreak Over at St. Marys Memorial Hospital
November 24, 2023
An outbreak of COVID-19 at the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) – St. Marys Memorial Hospital has been declared over by Huron Perth Public Health. The outbreak had been declared on the Inpatient Unit on November 16, 2023.
“Upon declaring the outbreak, immediate precautions were implemented, including prevalence testing for patients,” says Erica Jensen, Manager Quality, Patient Safety & Infection Control.
The Inpatient Unit has been reopened to admissions and transfers. Family and Caregiver Presence on the Unit has also been restored.
“While this outbreak is over, we can’t stress enough the importance of layering up your protection to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses that are circulating in Huron Perth,” adds Jensen. “Keep up-to-date with your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, wash your hands often, stay home if you are feeling sick and wear a mask when required/needed.”
Speaking of masks, they are required to be worn in all clinical areas of HPHA hospitals. This includes inpatient units, emergency departments, outpatient clinics, imaging, labs and waiting rooms. Medical grade masks are provided at the entrances and at masking stations throughout hospital sites.
“To keep our patients and team members safe from hospital-acquired respiratory infections it is important to follow the masking requirements when attending medical appointments and visiting loved ones,” explains Jensen. “This includes wearing a mask in the patient’s room when visiting. If you feel sick or have symptoms of illness it is strongly advised that you postpone your visit with your loved one until you are feeling better.”