The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on the Medicine Unit at Stratford General Hospital.
The outbreak status is confirmed when two or more positive COVID-19 cases emerge among patients or healthcare staff, potentially linked to hospital transmission.
In response to the outbreak, the affected unit is now temporarily closed to admissions until further notice.
HPHA is closely collaborating with Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) to address the situation. Patients, family members, caregivers, and healthcare staff affected by the outbreak are currently being informed. Stringent contact tracing and testing procedures are underway for individuals who were in the unit during this period.
Restrictions on family and caregiver presence within the unit have been implemented. Visitors to patients in the affected hospital area are required to adhere to posted guidelines and limit their interactions to one visit per patient per day, except for palliative patients in critical condition. Additionally, all family members and caregivers within the unit must wear complete personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gowns, gloves, and eye protection. Patients are placed in isolation, and access to common areas has been limited as a precautionary measure.
HPHA says it will continue to work alongside HPPH to manage and contain the outbreak, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients, healthcare staff, and visitors.