MAHC Steps Up Precautions in Response to Widespread Influenza in the Community

Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) is stepping up efforts to keep patients, staff, physicians and volunteers safe as the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has declared widespread influenza activity in the community.

The formal declaration signals MAHC to enact policies and strategies to control the further spread of influenza. While both hospital sites are not currently experiencing an influenza outbreak, precautionary measures are being put in place to help limit the spread of the flu virus.

You may notice staff, physicians and/or volunteers wearing masks. Those that haven’t been vaccinated are required to wear a mask at all times while working as long as the declaration remains in effect. This is for your protection and to help prevent an outbreak from occurring within our hospitals.

There are no visitor restrictions at this time. Visitors and outpatients are encouraged to clean their hands often using the hand hygiene stations throughout the hospital, and to don a complimentary mask if they wish.

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, which include sudden onset of fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle and joint pain and headache, please DO NOT visit patients in the hospital.

“When there is widespread influenza activity in the community, we tend to see more patients admitted with the flu,” explains Karen Fleming, Chief Quality & Nursing Executive. “Our focus is ensuring it doesn’t spread from patient to patient and preventing an outbreak within the hospital.”

If you or a family member has the flu:

• Stay home until the symptoms lessen
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing. Immediately dispose of the used tissue and wash hands
• Use the “Sleeve Sneeze” – cough or sneeze into the upper sleeve or elbow of clothing if tissues are not available
• Avoid touching your faceClean commonly touched surfaces frequently
• Wash hands often with soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Don't visit people in hospitals or retirement/long term care homes

It’s not too late to get your flu shot if you haven’t already. Check with your local pharmacy or contact your family physician. Please consider protecting yourself and others.