An influenza outbreak has been declared in the complex continuing care unit at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
Chatham-Kent public health is working closely with the hospital group to manage the outbreak and will continue to consult until the outbreak is declared over, stated a tuesday release.
“As part of (the health alliance’s) infection prevention and control guidelines, a number of additional initiatives have been implemented in response to the outbreak on the (complex continuing care) unit,” officials said. “(The health alliance) will continue following these measures until (public health) rescinds the outbreak orders.”
For those who develop influenza-like symptoms, the virus is infectious one to three days before symptoms start and remains infectious until five days after the onset of symptoms.
Officials emphasized to the community the hospital remains a safe place to receive care. If you are experiencing an emergent acute care need, do not hesitate to call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department.