Temiskaming Hospital is advising the public that a COVID-19 outbreak has been declared effective today (January 2) after two or more in-patients experienced symptoms and tested positive for COVID-19.

As a result, enhanced infection control measures are in place, and temporary adjustments to care partner/visitors are now in effect until further notice.

Temiskaming Hospital is asking for the public’s cooperation with the following to help minimize the risk of transmission to and from patients, visitors and staff.

Updated guidance is relevant to only the Medical Surgical Department at this time:

• Masks are required for all care partners visiting patients in the medical/surgical department.

• Patients admitted to medical/surgical department (acute or ALC/LTC/CCC) – unlimited care partners. One may visit at one time.

• End of life/medical assistance in dying/critically ill/risk of imminent death – unlimited care partners. Two may visit at a time.

• Pediatric and adolescent patients, aged under 16 – two designated care partners, for patient’s length of stay. Both (if from the same household) may visit at a time.

If your loved one is on isolation, appropriate personal protective equipment will need to be worn as instructed by staff during your visit.