Hospital restricts visitation due to norovirus-like symptoms

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

************************* Visitation restricted at General Hospital site

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON - (January 7, 2009) - Sault Area Hospital (SAH) has seen an increase in the number of patients on the 300Y Unit at the General site exhibiting norovirus-like symptoms.

Effective immediately, there will be no visitors allowed on this unit.

Symptoms of norovirus can include acute onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and/or abdominal cramps.

In addition, myalgia (muscle pain), malaise and headaches are often reported.

SAH has instituted measures to contain cross-contamination between different areas of the hospital and between patients on this floor.

Individuals visiting other parts of the hospital are urged to use discretion.

Anyone experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or cold/flu-like symptoms is discouraged from visiting the hospital at this time.

Visitors who do come to the hospital are reminded to wash their hands often with the solution provided throughout the facility.

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