In a concerning announcement, Prince County Hospital in Summerside, P.E.I.—the second-largest hospital on the island—has confirmed a flu outbreak within its medical-palliative unit. This has prompted immediate action to protect vulnerable patients.

In a news release issued on Wednesday, Health P.E.I. revealed that visitation restrictions are now in place for the affected unit. To mitigate the risk of spreading the highly contagious influenza virus, patients will only be permitted one visitor at a time.

Visitors to the unit are required to adhere to strict infection-control measures, including the mandatory wearing of masks when entering the facility. Moreover, Health P.E.I. strongly advises anyone feeling unwell to refrain from visiting altogether, as the health and safety of the patients take paramount importance.

Currently, there is only one palliative care patient being treated in the unit. Hospital staff are diligently working to provide comprehensive support to not only the patient but also their family during this challenging time.

It's crucial to understand that patients in palliative care are often the most vulnerable, as they are typically dealing with terminal illnesses during the final stages of life. Many of these patients have weakened immune systems, making them particularly susceptible to infections like influenza that can spread like wildfire in healthcare settings.

In light of this outbreak, the dedicated care teams at the hospital are offering their utmost comfort and support not just in the palliative unit, but across long-term care, community care, and hospital environments.

A spokesperson for Health P.E.I. noted that while the strict measures are in place, outbreaks in palliative care wards are managed similarly to those in other hospital units. This highlights the hospital's readiness to tackle health crises while maintaining care for all patients, even in the most sensitive situations.

As flu season looms and cases increase, it’s essential for the community to remain vigilant. Stay healthy, protect yourself and others—especially those in our hospitals—and consider the impact of your visit if you're feeling unwell. This outbreak serves as a critical reminder of the need for continued awareness and prevention strategies in our healthcare systems. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story!