MARATHON — A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared in the acute care wing of the Wilson Memorial General Hospital.
The Marathon Family Health Team and the North of Superior Healthcare Group announced the outbreak declaration this week.
“COVID is on the upswing again. We've seen that throughout Southern Ontario and actually in Thunder Bay for at least the last month. Now it's our turn again and it's really not a surprise. COVID is not as serious and scary as it once was two or three years ago. But it's around and we expect that it's going to be a seasonal thing here going forward,” CEO Adam Brown told CFNO Radio.
Hospitals declare a COVID-19 outbreak when they have two confirmed positive cases and there is reason to believe the virus was spread within the facility.
Brown said the individuals who have tested positive are self-isolating in their rooms. Visitations will be limited to two essential care partners to help contain the further spread of the virus. Essential Care Partners are defined as those who provide physical, psychological and/or emotional support to the patient.
"Visitors are still welcome into our acute care ward. We may ask that you put on some extra personal protective equipment, but I just ask any visitors to check in with the nursing station and receive instructions from them,” said Brown.
Although Brown said that masks are not mandatory, NOSH has implemented its outbreak management measures which include increased infection prevention and control practices and surveillance testing for affected individuals which includes staff. Staff members who become symptomatic are sent home to recover.
NOSH will continue to work with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit to manage the outbreak.
With files from of Al Creswell, CFNO Radio