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Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health

Gastroenteritis / Respiratory Infection Institutional Outbreak FAQs

Outbreaks occur when the usual incidence of disease in a Long Term Care Home (LTCH) or Retirement Home (RH) is exceeded at any given time.

Early identification of an outbreak is essential since the implementation of precautions and therapeutic interventions can prevent the spread of infection and decrease the morbidity and mortality of a very frail, compromised population.

Gastroenteritis Outbreaks

Outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness in institutions are most frequently caused by viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, astrovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, and others. However, bacteria and other pathogens may cause outbreaks as well.

The most common presentation of gastroenteritis is, but is not limited to, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea, along with nausea, headache, chills and myalgia.

Respiratory Infection Outbreaks

Respiratory tract infections are the most commonly diagnosed infections of LTCH and RH residents.

Residents are predisposed to such infections in part because they may be elderly, may have chronic illnesses which weaken their immune system, and may have chronic lung or neurological disease which impairs their ability to clear secretions from their lungs and airways.

Residents are also at risk because many viral and bacterial pathogens are easily transmitted in this type of environment.

Gastroenteritis / respiratory infection outbreaks in institutions are reportable to Public Health.

Gastroenteritis Institutional Outbreak Fact Sheet printable pdf

Respiratory Infection Institutional Outbreak Fact Sheet printable pdf

Need More Information About Gastroenteritis / Respiratory Infection Institutional Outbreak FAQs?

Talk to your health care provider or call our Communicable Disease Program at 613-966-5500 or 1-800-267-2803, ext. 349.

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COVID-19 vaccines in HPE

Eligible individuals can receive their vaccination at many participating local pharmacies by contacting the pharmacy directly. Please visit covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations for location and registration information.

Vaccine ordering for health care providers

Vaccine orders for routine immunizations and STI medications continue to be available through HPEPH by using our vaccine order forms; however, please note that our vaccine delivery/pickup procedure has changed. For the most up to date pick up schedule please visit hpePublicHealth.ca/vaccine-orders-info-healthcare-providers/.