Influenza outbreak at Minoru Residence

There is a confirmed outbreak of influenza at Minoru Residence.

Symptomatic residents have been isolated and treated. Symptomatic health care workers are excluded from working and must remain off work for five days, or until symptoms completely resolve, whichever is sooner.

The following measures are now in effect at Minoru Residence:

• The facility is closed to admissions and transfers until further notice.
• Extra housekeeping services will remain in place until further notice.
• All staff and physicians moving between units and facilities must adhere to hand washing and outbreak measures.
• Staff must wear a surgical (procedure) mask and eye protection when within 2 metres of a symptomatic resident.
• Group activities and outings are cancelled for the duration of the outbreak.

All staff are reminded to continue to report sick calls through the VCH Absence Call Line (1-866-924-4297) to notify your manager.

It is also a good time to review VCH’s Employee Influenza Prevention Program and Exposure Management policy. Minoru staff that have not had the flu vaccine are encouraged to attend a family physician/walk-in clinic to obtain a prescription for TAMIFLU, and to begin taking the medication. During declared seasonal outbreaks, non-immunized staff members who do not take antiviral medication are excluded from work without pay. Efforts will be made to reassign staff to a non-outbreak area providing there has not been exposure to the virus. Direct care staff vaccinated less than two weeks ago – or staff who choose to get vaccinated now –  may still be required to take anti-viral medication until the immunization protection takes effect in 14 days, or until the outbreak is declared over, whichever is shorter.

Our best defense against viruses and antibiotic-resistant bacterium remains frequent and thorough hand washing. Staff, as well as patients and visitors, are asked to adhere to strict hand washing directives and limit visits. As influenza is prevalent throughout the community, please observe precautions at home to protect yourself, your family and your coworkers.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Jonathan Fenton, Senior Medical Director

Dermot Kelly, Director, Medical Administration/Quality & Patient Safety/Perioperative Services

Natalie McCarthy, Director, Mental Health & Addiction/Residential Care