Elliot Lake hospital implements outbreak measures for VRE

Playing null of undefined

Elliot Lake hospital restricting visitors

VRE outbreak declared at Elliot Lake's St. Joseph's Hospital

St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake has declared a hospital-wide outbreak of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE), effective Monday.

The declaration was announced in a news release and a corresponding social media post from the hospital shortly after noon.

In response to the outbreak, visitation has been restricted to essential care partners until further notice.

Enhanced measures implemented

The hospital stated that enhanced infection prevention and control measures are now in place throughout the facility.

These measures include mandatory gown and glove use for all inpatient interactions, monitoring for personal protective equipment compliance and increased environmental cleaning and disinfection.

What is VRE?

According to hospital officials, VRE are bacteria that are resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin. The bacteria are naturally found in the intestines and urinary tract and typically do not cause illness in healthy individuals.

The hospital notes that VRE commonly spreads in healthcare settings through direct contact and contaminated surfaces and can survive for long periods on surfaces such as toilet seats.

When infections do occur, such as in the bloodstream or urinary tract, they can be more difficult to treat. The hospital emphasized that hand hygiene remains the most effective defence against its spread.

Situation being monitored

“Our outbreak management team continues to monitor the situation closely,” the hospital said in its social media post.

“Further updates will be shared as they become available.”

For more information, the public is directed to the hospital’s website or its social media page.