August 17, 2009 - Officials at the Health Unit and the Manitouwadge General Hospital have declared an outbreak of respiratory illness in the hospital’s long-term care facility.  

Admissions, transfers and discharges have been cancelled until further notice. Visitor restrictions are in place, so relatives and friends are encouraged to call for more information.

The Health Unit is continuing to monitor the situation. 

The Health Unit is urging people to stay at home and refrain from visiting hospitals and long-term care facilities when feeling unwell to avoid spreading infections to those most vulnerable; young infants and children, the elderly and those with other chronic illnesses.

The Health Unit reminds the public to prevent getting and spreading infections by:

• Covering your cough/sneeze with a tissue; if you don’t have a tissue, cough/sneeze into your upper sleeve.
• Disinfect all commonly used surfaces and keep your hands away from face.
• Making sure all immunizations are up-to-date, including the annual flu shot. 
• Washing your hands frequently, for at least 15 seconds with soap and warm water, or by using a hand sanitizer.

Staying at home if you are ill to avoid spreading infections to others.

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