Hospital issues Norwalk update

In the wake of an outbreak of Norwalk virus infection, Sault Area Hospital continues to discourage patient visitation unless absolutely necessary.

The following is the full text of an announcement released by the hospital today:

******************************* Visitor Restrictions Remain in Effect at SAH

January 20, 2003 - There continues to be patients presenting to the hospital with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

The number of patients who are ill with these symptoms remains stable, but SAH continues to discourage patient visitation unless it is absolutely necessary.

Community residents are urged to use discretion when visiting the hospital.

Visitors who are experiencing nausea, vomiting or diarrhea or flu-like symptoms which are respiratory or cold-like symptoms should not visit the hospital.

Hand washing continues to be the best approach in controlling the spread of infection.

All visitors are required to wash their hands when entering and leaving the hospital.

The hospital appreciates the community's strong support in the handwashing program and as a result, a waterless hand wash solution will now be available to visitors all year around.

Permanent hand wash pumps have been installed at most main entrances and elevators of both buildings.