The hospital is implementing outbreak management protocols to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors<\/p>\n
Today a\u00a0COVID-19 outbreak was\u00a0declared at Sault Area Hospital, although officials are unable to say how many patients have contracted the virus.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The hospital, in collaboration with Algoma Public Health, declared an outbreak on Unit 1B, which is designated as a Transition Care Unit to support\u00a0patients who often require an alternative level of care<\/p>\n
\u201cIn keeping with personal health information privacy legislation, we are unable to comment on specific patient details,\u201d said Felicia Clement, the hospital\u2019s communications and digital services coordinator.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cIn a hospital setting an outbreak is declared based on the criteria outlined by the Provincial Infectious Diseases Advisory Committee on Infection Prevention and Control,\u201d she said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
PIDAC defines an outbreak as two or more patients testing positive for the same respiratory virus within a defined area, \u201cwith symptom onset occurring within a 48-hour period, and where at least two cases could reasonably have been acquired within the health-care setting.\u201d<\/p>\n
The hospital is implementing outbreak management protocols to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThese measures include enhanced infection prevention and control practices, increased testing, and temporary restrictions on admissions and transfers to and from the affected unit,\u201d Clement said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
While Unit 1B remains open for essential caregivers, general visitor access is restricted.<\/p>\n
“An essential caregiver is a person chosen by the patient to provide vital support and participate in their care and decision-making. This designation ensures that patients continue to receive the emotional and practical assistance they need during their stay,” Clement said.<\/p>\n
“Please note that care needs vary from patient to patient, and our staff work closely with each individual and their family to ensure appropriate support is provided\u2014including during declared outbreaks,” she said.<\/p>\n
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our community as we prioritize the health and well-being of our patients.<\/p>\n