COVID-19 Update: Outbreak in South Muskoka Memorial Hospital (SMMH) North Wing

Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) has placed the North Wing at the SMMH Site under a unit-specific COVID-19 confirmed outbreak status in consultation with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU). This status follows the confirmation of COVID-19 in four patients and one staff member.

Precautionary Measures Implemented

To maintain the safety of our patients, staff, and community, the following measures have been put in place:

• Visitation Restrictions: Visitation is currently limited to one essential caregiver per patient. General visitors are temporarily not permitted during the outbreak period. All visitors are required to wear a surgical mask and other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) as recommended by our infection prevention and control protocols.
• Suspension of Group Activities: All group activities within the North Wing are temporarily suspended.
• Procedural and Transfer Precautions: Enhanced PPE requirements are in effect for all transfers and procedures, including surgical masks for patients and eye protection, N95 masks, gowns, and gloves for staff. Specific isolation precautions are also in place for high-risk exposure patients and COVID-positive patients.
• Discharge and Transfer Protocols: Discharges and transfers to other facilities will continue following a discussion with the receiving facility to ensure safe transport. Discharges to long-term care, retirement homes, and group homes will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Patient Masking and Isolation: Patients are required to wear masks while receiving care and will remain in isolation until cleared by the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) team.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns, please contact the IPAC Team at (705) 645-4404 ext. 6004. We are committed to providing continuous updates and support during this time.