Influenza outbreak reported at Burlington long-term care home

BURLINGTON, Ont. – The Halton health department says it has contained an influenza outbreak at a long-term care facility.

Officials say four patients are currently receiving treatment after the Influenza A flare-up at a 130-patient home in Burlington. They would not release the name of the affected facility.

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A spokesperson says the outbreak was first reported Sunday.

“While influenza outbreaks are not uncommon in long-term care homes, they present a real challenge for residents and caregivers,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s medical officer of health. “Elderly patients are especially vulnerable to the acute impacts of influenza and must be closely monitored to ensure their health does not deteriorate.”

In an email to Global News, officials said the facility “initiated outbreak control measures in consultation with the health department” and it continues to monitor the illness. It adds that no new cases have been emerged since the outbreak was first reported.