Stratford General Hospital declares COVID-19 outbreak

The medicine unit at Stratford General Hospital has been closed to admissions until further notice due to an outbreak of COVID-19.

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While Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance officials did not disclose how many cases have been discovered, their release stated that an “outbreak status refers to two or more confirmed positive COVID-19 cases among patients that could have possibly been acquired in the hospital.”

The hospital group is working in collaboration with Huron Perth public health to manage the outbreak, the release said. While the unit is closed, patients may only have one family caregiver or visitor per day with no in-and-out privileges. Family members and caregivers will be required to wear personal protective equipment, including masks, eye protection, gowns and gloves.

Patients and their families are in the process of being notified while the testing of patients is taking place.

“As we enter cold and flu season, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities,” said Erica Jensen, manager of quality, patient safety and infection control.

“Please take the necessary steps to stay healthy, such as washing your hands regularly, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and staying home if you’re feeling unhappy. If you’re sick, avoid visiting hospitals to help protect others.”

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