The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) has declared a Rhinovirus outbreak on the Inpatient Unit at its Stratford General Hospital site.
Patients on the affected unit are experiencing a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, increased secretions, chest congestion, and even vomiting. While most Rhinovirus infections tend to be mild, it’s important to note that they can lead to severe illness, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems, asthma, or underlying medical conditions.
Due to the outbreak, the affected unit is now temporarily closed to admissions until further notice, as HPHA, in collaboration with Huron Perth Public Health, works diligently to manage the situation. Patients, their families/caregivers, and hospital staff are being notified, and extensive testing is underway to contain the outbreak.
In response, each patient may now have only one family caregiver/visitor per day, and they must adhere to strict personal protective equipment requirements, including wearing masks, eye protection, gowns, and gloves.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
