Norwalk Like Virus Outbreak At GR Baker Hospital

By 250 News

Northern Health has put infection control measures into place at Quesnel's G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital’s third floor in-patient unit, due to suspected Norwalk virus.

There have been 15 suspected cases of the illness reported since Tuesday, December 19th. Six patients and nine staff have been affected by the gastrointestinal virus.

Northern Health is asking friends and family of patients to take extra precautions before visiting the unit until further notice. Visitors are asked to wash their hands before entering the floor. They should also avoid coming if they are feeling sick and have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

“So far the cases have all been isolated to the third floor in-patient unit,” said Dr. Lorna Medd, medical health officer. “We have sent samples to the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control for analysis and we are waiting for lab confirmation.”

Viral gastroenteritis is a common illness. Symptoms can include sudden onset of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, as well as cramping, chills and fever. These symptoms generally last from one to three days. Affected individuals should stay at home and not return to work or school until 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.

Infection control measures will remain in place at G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital’s third floor in-patient unit until the outbreak is declared over.

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