News Release

CKHA Issues Precautionary Measures for Influenza At Chatham and Sydenham Campuses

Chatham-Kent -- In keeping with hospital infection control policies and in preparation of reducing the impact of the global H1N1 virus to public health, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is issuing a number of precautionary measures at both campuses which are now in effect.

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance asks the public to refrain from visiting the hospital for reasons other than seeking medical attention and visiting ill family members.  Reducing the amount of unnecessary public traffic in the hospital will help to minimize the chances of illnesses from the community spreading, as well as minimize the chances of exposing the community to illness from CKHA patients.

Visitors are asked not to use the Emergency Department entrance when entering and exiting the hospital.  The Emergency Department entrance is designated only for those seeking emergency services.

The public are asked to wash their hands upon entrance and exit and not visit the hospital when experiencing respiratory symptoms like cough, sore throat, runny nose and/or fever, or gastric symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  If you have these symptoms and are seeking medical attention or treatment, please put on a mask.  They are available at all entrances of both campuses.  If none are available, please ask a staff member for one.

Services are offered as usual, in all areas of the hospital. The Alliance’s Emergency Departments will continue to screen patients for influenza-like symptoms upon arrival.  Out-Patient Clinics and elective services will continue, as scheduled.

Although there are no reported community outbreaks, there has been an increase in the number of patients with influenza-like symptoms seeking advice and treatment in both our Emergency Departments.

“Chatham-Kent Health Alliance takes the potential threat of H1N1 influenza seriously and wishes to meet our patients and family’s expectation of compassionate, quality care in our community.  The safety of our patients, visitors and staff are our priority.  Therefore, we are implementing these precautions at this time.” said Dr. Gary Tithecott, CKHA Chief of Staff.

According to the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit, influenza activity is increasing in Chatham-Kent and is being monitoring accordingly. The public will be updated if activity changes or escalates. CKHA has a clear responsibility to protect patients, families and visitors by being prepared in the event of a serious pandemic situation.  Part of CKHA’s pandemic planning is to ensure: 

• The protection of the health of our patients, their families, and employees, as well as visitors
• Coordinate and collaborate with public authorities
• Reduce the impact of the pandemic to protect public health

Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.  Most cases of influenza tend to be mild.  However, if you do not start to feel better after a few days or if your symptoms get worse, you should call your primary healthcare provider.  You may also call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 to speak to a Registered Nurse to get health advice and information.

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance follows recommended guidelines from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care.  For more information, please go to our website at www.ckha.on.ca, go to Patients and Family and click on Infection Control.

What can you do to stay healthy?

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds.  Be sure to clean your hands after sneezing or coughing and after touching surfaces others may have touched.
• Keep alcohol-based sanitizer handy at work, home and in your car.
• Cough and sneeze into your upper sleeve or a tissue, not your hand.  Dispose of tissues immediately.
• Keep commonly touched surfaces clean and disinfected.
• Protect yourself and others by talking to your health care provider about seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines.

For more information about influenza, see these links:

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

http://www.ckha.on.ca/Site_Published/internet/PF_InfectionPrevention.aspx

Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit

http://www.chatham-kent.ca/community+services/Public+Health/Health+Home.htm

Ministry of Health and Long Term Care         

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ccom/flu/

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Gary Tithecott, Chief of Staff

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

(519) 352-6401  ext 6315