A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared in the Restorative Care Unit (1B) at Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) in Cobourg, affecting three patients, with several others awaiting test results.
The outbreak, identified on August 27, 2024, has prompted the hospital to temporarily halt regular visiting to the unit, with limited exceptions for patients at imminent end-of-life, as discussed with the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) team.
NHH has implemented a series of rigorous infection prevention measures to contain the outbreak. These include daily self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms by staff, mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and enhanced environmental cleaning, particularly in high-touch areas. Patients and staff considered at high risk of exposure are under close monitoring, with testing and isolation protocols in place as needed.
Dining room services in the Restorative Care and Inpatient Rehabilitation units have also been suspended, replaced by in-room service. The hospital will continue to update the public on the situation through its website and social media channels, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene and proactive communication to prevent further spread. Visitors are reminded to refrain from visiting if they exhibit any COVID-19 symptoms or have recently tested positive.
For more info, please read Visiting Guidelines (nhh.ca)
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
