October 12, 2010 - The gastrointestinal outbreak at Bethammi Nursing Home in St. Joseph's Heritage on Carrie Street has been declared over and the restrictions have been lifted.

To prevent further outbreaks, the Health Unit and facility management request that those who have been ill or who are not feeling well wait until they have recovered before visiting family and friends. This will help to avoid the spread of infections to those most vulnerable, including the elderly and those with other chronic illnesses.

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

• covering coughs/sneezes with a tissue or into the upper sleeve.

• putting all used tissues in the garbage right away.

• washing hands frequently, for at least 15 seconds with soap and warm water, or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• staying at home if when ill to avoid spreading infections to others.

-END-