Overview of the Outbreak

In a significant health update, Sault Area Hospital (SAH) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak in the 1B Unit, urging all visitors to adhere to strict safety protocols.

Visitor Guidelines

Anyone entering the unit is required to wear a hospital-approved mask at all times and use hand sanitizer both upon entry and exit. To safeguard the well-being of patients, visitors are requested to limit their visits, with visitation hours set from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily, though exceptions may be accommodated.

Recent Outbreaks and Measures

This announcement follows a previous outbreak declaration on the 3B Unit just days earlier, on October 19, prompting similar protective measures. The hospital has reinforced its masking policy in light of the ongoing respiratory season, mandating that all individuals don a mask or face covering in any patient care area as well as in public spaces of off-site facilities.

Mask Provision and Community Safety

To facilitate compliance, the hospital is providing surgical or procedural masks to everyone, including patients and visitors, at all major entrances and nursing stations. This effort is part of a broader initiative aimed at ensuring the safety of vulnerable patients, healthcare workers, and visitors alike.

Enhanced Precautions

A spokesperson emphasized the importance of masking during this high-risk season through a recent social media post, highlighting that enhanced precautionary measures will be invoked in any unit identified as having a respiratory outbreak.

Visitor Limitations

Further measures include limitations on visitors, with only essential care partners permitted during these sensitive times. The hospital encourages all community members, even in areas where masking is not mandatory, to continue wearing masks to enhance collective safety.

Signage and Information

Signage will be clearly displayed in the hospital to indicate when masks are required, specifically at the entrances to patient care units and clinics. The post reiterated the hospital's commitment to the safety and well-being of its staff, patients, and visitors, thanking everyone for their cooperation.

Conclusion and Resources

As respiratory illnesses continue to rise during this season, it is crucial for the community to remain vigilant in following health guidelines. For further information regarding visitor policies and safety measures, you can visit the Sault Area Hospital website. Keep yourself informed and stay safe!