ENGLEHART (Staff/special) –There have been an increased number of reported cases of gastrointestinal illness at the Englehart Hospital. In light of this outbreak, the following restrictions are in effect as of Tuesday June 9.

• NO VISITORS WILL BE ALLOWED IN TO PATIENT CARE AREAS EXCEPT IN THE FOLLOWING CIRCUMSTANCES:
o Compassionate visits for critically ill patients.
o One parent only for admitted children.
o Other extenuating circumstances discussed with Hospital staff.

• No children 16 years of age and under may visit.

• Do not visit any patients if you are experiencing any of the following gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or fever).

• Please ensure that you clean your hands with hand sanitizer when you enter and leave the Hospital and when you enter and leave the patient’s room

• Wear the isolation clothing as indicated. There will be a sign outside the patient’s room showing what is required as well as an isolation cart with the necessary supplies. Please ask the nursing staff for assistance the first time you enter the patient’s room.

In a release the hospitals says, “We appreciate your understanding and co-operation as we implement these precautions for your safety and the safety of our patients.

“We are optimistic that with the implementation of these measures we should be able to lift the visitor restrictions within a couple of weeks.”