News Release
Niagara Health System hospitals urge cooperation to assist in limiting spread of Norwalk Virus
- Date of Issue: Thursday, January 2, 2003
- Français
St. Catharines , ON - Niagara Health System urges all Niagara residents to take precautionary measures to avoid the spread of the Norwalk Virus and other gastrointestinal illnesses.
"I urge those who show symptoms of Norwalk virus to avoid visiting friends and loved ones in hospitals or long-term care facilities," said Dr. Ashok Sharma, Acting Chief of Medical Staff for the Niagara Health System. "The sick, young babies and the elderly can be especially susceptible, particularly in large facilities. The most effective means to contain the spread of any gastrointestinal illness is to ensure you properly wash your hands with antibacterial soap and hot water and limit your contact with people who may be carrying a virus."
Symptoms of the Norwalk Virus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, myalgia, malaise and low-grade fever. Norwalk virus is spread through the fecal oral route with possible contact or respiratory spread. The best way to prevent its spread is by washing hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and hot water after each trip to the washroom. Particular attention should be given to cleaning objects that are frequently handled such as taps, door handles, knobs, banisters, toilets and bath rails.
Three Niagara Health System hospitals have put visiting restrictions in place to help prevent unnecessary exposure and spread of the Norwalk virus. Visiting restrictions are in effect at the St. Catharines General, Greater Niagara General and Welland hospital sites. Through the past four weeks the health system has identified 85 patient cases of Norwalk across its eight hospital system.
"We're doing everything possible to contain the spread of Norwalk within our facilities in order to keep all of our hospital services, including our emergency departments, fully functioning," said Dr. Sharma. "If you have any doubts about whether you are having a medical emergency, don't hesitate to go to the nearest available emergency department or call 911. For non-emergencies, there are a number of our medical resources available including the toll-free health advice service Telehealth Ontario."
Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing free access to Registered Nurses who will help with any health-related question.
"We need everyone's cooperation and support. We kindly ask that patients and visitors abide by the visiting restrictions and follow good hand washing procedures," said Dr. Sharma.