SASKATOON – The Saskatoon Health Region (SHR) declared an outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness on a unit at Royal University Hospital (RUH) today.
Unit 5300, which serves orthopedic and trauma patients at RUH, is closed to admissions, transfers and visitors until further notice.
Four patients have been experiencing such symptoms as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, discomfort and diarrhea due to an unknown gastrointestinal illness.
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The illness is transmitted via the fecal-oral route due to contamination of food, water or surfaces.
SHR says people usually don’t know they’re been carrying the virus until symptoms begin to show up and it has been going around in the community.
Health officials also say that close quarters at the hospital help spread the virus much easier.
Residents are urged to practice proper hand-hygiene to combat the spread of infection.
SHR says most gastrointestinal illnesses do not require emergency treatment and those who exhibit these symptoms should care for themselves at home.
If vomiting and diarrhea persist residents should contact their local health-care provider or the provincial HealthLine at 1-877-800-0002.
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