Timmins' hospital is taking steps to make sure it's ready for local cases of COVID-19.
According to a Timmins and District Hospital news release, there are currently no active cases of novel coronavirus in Timmins and surrounding area. The facility is working with the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) to prepare, though.
"We're ready for the first cases, but we've had to make some changes, including limiting public access to the hospital to two visitors per patient. If you have symptoms or exposure, or have had recent international travel, we are asking you not to visit your loved ones at this time," said Jodie Russell, TDH infection control co-ordinator, in a news release.
If concern of the spread of COVID-19 heightens, Russell said the hospital may consider "increased restricted visitor access and reductions in non-urgent service in order to safeguard our patients and staff."
Preparations at the hospital started with the first COVID-19 reports, according to chief of staff and VP of medicine Harry Voogjarv.
"Since then, we have activated our pandemic plan, and have met with all the teams at the hospital that may be affected by the pandemic, including admitting, triage and emergency department staff," he said.
Coronavirus symptoms include a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
While PHU medical officer of health Dr. Lianne Catton said the majority of COVID-19 infections are relatively mild, "some people may experience more difficulty in breathing or feel very unwell."
"If you develop symptoms, you need to isolate yourself immediately and call the health unit or your primary care provider, making sure to inform them of your symptoms and recent travel," she said.
She said they are working on options for community assessment and keep the emergency department for trauma and patients in acute distress.
"If you're coming to the Emergency Department at TADH, you will be asked to report your symptoms and your travel history, including the countries you recently visited, your recent exposure to someone who has traveled internationally, or who has been exposed to a suspected COVID-19 case," said Russell.
People with questions or concerns can call the Porcupine Health Unit at 705-267-1181, their primary care provider, or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
To protect yourself, it is suggested to wash your hands often with soap and water, sneeze and cough into your sleeve, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, avoid contact with people who are sick, and stay home if you ar sick.
