Norovirus alert issued at Sault Area Hospital

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

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March 18, 2009 - Sault Area Hospital (SAH) has seen an increase in the number of patients on the Care Unit East (second floor at the Plummer site) exhibiting Norovirus-like symptoms.

While no visitor restrictions are currently in place, we wish to alert the public to the situation and recommend that visits be postponed wherever possible.

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.

It is important that individuals who may be planning to visit patients in this area use discretion to safeguard both their safety and that of the patient.

Anyone experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or cold/flu-like symptoms is strongly discouraged from visiting.

Visitors who do come to the hospital are reminded to wash their hands often with the solution provided throughout the facility and asked to be respectful of visiting hours and any other direction or requests from nursing staff.

SAH wishes to thank the public for their understanding and cooperation.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and advise of any updates.

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