New travel restrictions and screening measures are now in place for those wanting to enter the Dryden Regional Health Centre.
Effective immediately, anyone who traveled to Manitoba within the previous 14 days will face a ‘failed entrance screening’ and be denied entrance to the hospital.
The new restrictions apply to all staff, patients and visitors.
This comes in response to the rise in COVID-19 cases across Canada, and most recently increases in positive cases in the City of Winnipeg and surrounding Manitoba communities.
DRHC notes these restrictions reflect public health recommendations, to avoid non-essential travel to Manitoba.
President and Chief Executive Officer Doreen Armstrong Ross says while COVID-19 cases have been low in our community, it’s important to remember that this virus is very contagious and doesn’t stay in just any one area.
“We’re seeing the impact of the contagion in our neighbouring province. It’s vital that we keep up our guard and continue to follow Ministry and public health recommendations
by practicing hand hygiene, maintaining physical distancing, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, wearing a mask, staying home when unwell and avoiding non-essential travel to
Manitoba at this time. We’re pleading everyone to follow public health recommendations and help us in our efforts to avoid the spread of COVID-19.”
Chief of Staff at DRHC, Dr. Bruce Cook adds COVID-19 has no boundaries.
“It (COVID-19) can very quickly overwhelm our hospital and further stress our resources. It is evident that a great deal of reported infections are result of travel. Over the last eight and a half months, we have focused on doing everything we can to protect our patients, staff, medical staff, and community. While we continue our efforts every moment of every day, we are asking that our community members to do their part as well. Please don’t travel outside of Northwestern Ontario unless absolutely necessary.”
Patients attending the DRHC for urgent and emergency care will be required to follow strict hospital policies and may not be admitted without prior contact and instructions.
Patients with scheduled appointments who travel outside Northwestern Ontario within the previous 14 days must contact the appropriate department to advise of their travel and to receive
further instruction.
Without prior contact for instructions, entrance to the facility will be prohibited.
Patients who have travelled to Manitoba in the previous 14 days should be prepared for cancelled procedures, tests or treatments.
