Visitor Restriction Lifted at Roseway Hospital

Norovirus activity has lessened and therefore South West Health has been able to lift the visitor restriction.



“We know how important visitors are to our patients so we are pleased to be able to reopen to visitors,� says says Jodi Ybarra, site manager, Roseway Hospital.



South West Health cautions Shelburne County residents that some norovirus is still present in the community. People who have symptoms of the virus, particularly vomiting and diahrrea should not hospital patients until 24 hours after their last episode of illness. All visitors should wash their hands thoroughly before and after visiting patients.



Noroviruses are transmitted through vomit and feces (stool). “In most healthy people, acute diarrhea and vomiting usually last eight to twelve hours and people normally recover in 48 hours,� says Dr. Richard Gould, medical officer of health. “Symptoms may last longer in some people,� he adds.



The noroviruses are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person. The virus can survive for up to 12 hours on surfaces such as toilets, sinks, towels and sheets. Thorough hand washing and proper cleaning is essential to stop the spread of the illness.



There is no treatment for noroviruses. “In cases where otherwise healthy people become sick they should stay home until the symptoms go away,� says Dr. Gould. “They should sip lots of clear fluids to stay hydrated. Clear fluids include electrolyte solutions like Pedialyte, water, fruit juices or gingerale,� he adds. If people are concerned, they should talk to their family doctor or call their local public health office.