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The Polson Residential Care facility in Vernon (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)
By Liam Verster
Interior Health

Outbreak at Vernon long-term care facility

Mar 3, 2023 | 11:25 AM

A gastrointestinal Illness outbreak has been declared at Polson Residential Services.

Interior Health (IH) said the outbreak, identified Thursday, March 2, is affecting the Polson north unit of the Vernon long-term care facility.

Symptoms of gastrointestinal Illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle aches, headaches, weakness, and low grade fever.

Under IH outbreak protocols, signs have been posted outside the facility, activities and outings are being cancelled, staff are enhancing cleaning and disinfection measures and are using more personal protective equipment, and residents are being encouraged to stay in their rooms, stay away from others and reschedule non-emergency medical appointments.

Interior Health has confirmed the outbreak involves four individuals.

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The gastrointestinal Illness outbreak at the Hamlets at Vernon declared Feb. 23 remains ongoing and 20 people have been affected.

Interior Health told Vernon Matters neither of these outbreaks have resulted in any hospitalizations or deaths.

by Liam Verster
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