The North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) has declared a ‘high risk influenza status’ for the Health Centre, including an outbreak on one of our inpatient units.

Mark Daniw, Manager of Infection Prevention & Control explains that a designation of ‘high risk influenza status’ is done as a proactive measure to help protect our patients from increased risk of infections. “It means that along with encouraging influenza vaccination, staff also follow heightened infection control measures—such as hand washing and effective use of personal protection equipment (PPE).”

This change in status reflects the increase of flu-like activity currently seen both in the community and within the hospital. The Health Centre has one unit in the facility currently in outbreak status. Full outbreak control measures have been implemented and we ask for everyone’s patience and consideration during this time.

While not closed to visitors, the Health Centre does ask everyone to follow any instructions posted throughout the Health Centre. “Visitors may want to consider getting their flu shot, and postponing visits if they are feeling unwell, to avoid spreading the virus to those who may be more vulnerable,” Daniw says.

For more information on how to protect yourself from the flu visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/flu-facts

-30-

Contact:

Lindsay Smylie Smith
Communications Specialist
Lindsay.smyliesmith@nbrhc.on.ca
705-495-7592