Illness outbreaks flaring up at Northland Pioneer Lodge

Residents at Meadow Lake’s Northland Pioneer Lodge (NPL) are currently dealing with a couple viruses.

On March 19, a respiratory outbreak occurred on the North side of the facility, with the illnesses identified as the eRespiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza B.

In recent days, the South side has also had a respiratory outbreak according to Dr. Mandiangu Nsungu, medical health officer with the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) in North Battleford.

“We don’t know the cause of it yet,” he said. “The swabs have been taken but so far, we’re waiting to see what the cause is.”

As of this morning, Nsungu also confirmed there is an intestinal outbreak in the facility’s North wing as well.

Trades in Sask.

Skilled trades need not limited to building homes

Apr 17, 2024

Raising concerns

Battlefords and Meadow Lake MPs weigh in on new federal budget

Apr 17, 2024

Tragic events

Sask. Gov't confirms investigation after former Pine Grove inmate passes away in hospital

Apr 16, 2024

“I got a phone call saying there are now some people with enteric symptoms, with diarrhea and vomiting,” he said. “We’re still also investigating to see the cause there.”

Nsungu said while the NPL staff and SHA do not ban people from visiting the long-term care home, he said it may be best to postpone a visit if at all possible. He said if visits are mandatory, visitors should follow instructions from the staff at the facility, such as not visiting more than one person, and wearing protective clothing like gloves and masks. He said this is a protocol to help break the chain of transmission of the viruses as soon as possible.

“It is not to frighten people, it’s something we have to do to protect the residents,” Nsungu said.

He added this is why the flu vaccine each year is so important, as it helps reduce the spread of various types of respiratory illness. The elderly, children and those suffering from chronic diseases are the most vulnerable to influenza, while healthy people usually experience milder symptoms.

Information about outbreaks in the region, including tips and precautions for the spread of illnesses, is available on the Saskatchewan Health Authority website.

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @ReporterKath