Due to a significant increase in the number of Influenza type-A cases at the Health Sciences Centre Children’s Hospital, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority has instituted several new restrictions for visitors to the hospital.
Many of the children presenting with symptoms of Influenza are requiring admission to the hospital as well as specialized treatment. Treatment for these children includes oxygen masks and in more severe cases, ventilators. The need for such treatments is often necessary during Influenza outbreaks as well as other respiratory illnesses such as RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).
Will the increase in the number of Influenza-A cases restrict your travel?
Since the increase of Influenza-A cases, several new visitor restrictions have been implemented. Visitors are being asked to postpone visits when possible and to avoid visiting when they are not feeling well. Visitors are also being asked not to bring children with them if they are prone to getting ill.
Additional restrictions for visitors include that they should remain in the unit during visits with patients and must be diligent in making sure that their hands are clean. Furthermore, only the parents can visit, and there is a limit of two visitors at a time.
Influenza spreads via coughing and sneezing, but it can also live on surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, hands, and clothing. Germs are easily transferred when a person touches something contaminated, so sanitizing these surfaces is a must in preventing spreading the influenza virus.
For a more in-depth understanding of restrictions for travelling to Winnipeg, please see the full article here:
Health officials put visitor restrictions in place at HSC Children’s Hospital
