ALLISTON, ON. - After on-going consultation with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is lifting the enhanced Contact Precautions for its Medical Surgical Unit. The precautions were put in place and an Outbreak status was declared following four confirmed cases of Clostridium Difficile (C. diff.).

There have been no new cases of diarrhea for over 72 hours and the decision was made, along with the public health unit, to discontinue the enhanced Contact Precautions for the unaffected patients on the Medical Surgical Unit. Stevenson will continue to monitor the unit for any new cases and will take the necessary precautions as required.

Contact Precautions now apply only to the patients with confirmed C. diff., their visitors and caregivers.  Contact Precautions will also apply to new or suspected cases should any arise.

Heightened surveillance will continue throughout the hospital to ensure early identification of any suspect cases, should they occur. Enhanced cleaning will also continue on the rooms of patients confirmed to have C. diff.

C. diff. is spread through contact. When a person touches contaminated surfaces such as toilets, handles, bedpans, or commode chairs, hands can become contaminated. If the mouth is touched without washing the hands, infection can occur.  Soiled hands can also spread the bacteria to other surfaces. Hand washing remains the best protection in preventing the spread of C. diff.

All visitors to the hospital are reminded to perform Hand Hygiene, by washing with the alcohol-based hand rub provided at each entrance to the hospital. It is especially important when entering and exiting patient rooms. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated for the safety of our patients, their families, visitors and our staff.

Stevenson Memorial is open and all units are providing service.