Hospitals restrict visitor access

An increase in influenza cases has prompted Sault Area Hospitals to ask anyone with flu-like symptoms or who's been exposed to people with such symptoms to refrain from visiting the hospital. Children are also restricted from visiting the hospital until further notice. "These restrictions are in place at both the General and Plummer Hospitals sites and will be in place until further notice. SAH is seeking community cooperation to help minimize the risk of infection to patients, staff and visitors," the hospitals said in a news release this evening.

Visitor access restrictions will continue for eight days from the date of diagnosis of the last case of Influenza A.

Patients experiencing flu-like symptoms needing medical attention are asked to see their doctor or come to the hospital’s emergency department.

Reporters were advised tonight that because of the eight-day rolling restriction, the soonest the hospitals will be able to provide an update on possible continuation of these restrictions is March 14.

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