Rhinovirus Outbreak Declared at Blind River Long-Term Care Unit

Rhinovirus has been confirmed in the long-term care unit of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) in Blind River, prompting Algoma Public Health (APH) to declare an outbreak. The announcement was made on Friday afternoon, highlighting the immediate measures being implemented to ensure the safety of residents, staff, and visitors.

According to the NSHN, they are collaborating closely with APH to monitor all residents for new symptoms. As part of the outbreak response, the unit has been closed to new admissions. Rhinoviruses, commonly known as the cause of the common cold, can lead to infections of the nasal lining, sinuses, and throat, with symptoms typically lasting between one to two weeks, as noted by Health Canada.

New Precautions Implemented

Effective immediately, several precautions have been put in place for the long-term care home. Visitors are now required to wear a medical mask at all times and must perform hand hygiene upon entering and exiting the facility. Additionally, visits are restricted to one resident at a time, and these visits must occur in the resident’s room. Non-essential visits are recommended to be rescheduled.

A statement from NSHN emphasized the importance of individual health considerations, advising, “All visitors should consider their personal health in determining whether visiting is appropriate.” Visitors displaying symptoms consistent with influenza-like illness, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, are encouraged to refrain from visiting to prevent further spread of the virus.

Communication and Support

For those who wish to connect with residents virtually, the North Shore Health Network provides options for virtual visits. Interested parties can call 705-356-2265 ext. 2351 for more information. The NSHN has committed to providing ongoing updates regarding the outbreak status and safety measures.

This outbreak serves as a reminder of the potential seriousness of rhinovirus infections, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may face a higher risk of complications like pneumonia.