Gastrointestinal Outbreak - AC

Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2019

A gastrointestinal illness outbreak was declared on the Acute Care unit of the Geraldton District Hospital on November 9, 2019, at 6pm by officials at the Public Health Unit and the Geraldton District Hospital.

All admissions, transfers, discharges and social activities on the Acute Care unit have been cancelled until further notice. Visitors are restricted to family members and caregivers only. We are encouraging only 1 visitor per resident and that children do not visit the Acute Care unit during this time.

Family members and caregivers who decide to visit the Acute Care unit are reminded to wash their hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer when they enter the facility.

The Geraldton District Hospital is urging people to refrain from visiting the Hospital and Long-Term Care residence when feeling unwell to avoid spreading infections to those most vulnerable.

The public is reminded that they can prevent getting and spreading infections by:

• Washing hands often, for at least 15 seconds with soap and warm water, or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Coughing/sneezing into their elbow instead of their hands.
• Staying at home if sick to avoid spreading infections to others.

For more information please contact Laurie Heerema at the Geraldton District Hospital.