COVID-19: Complete ban on patient visits

Bathurst, Sunday, March 15, 2020 – A complete ban on patient visits is now in effect across all Vitalité Health Network facilities, except for Palliative Care, Obstetric and Pediatric (including child psychiatry) units. For these specific units, only one designated immediate family member or care partner will be allowed to visit. This new measure was put in place to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19.

The battle against the COVID-19 Coronavirus is only beginning and we cannot afford to let our guard down. Four other potential cases of COVID-19 have just been announced, which forces us to intensify efforts to limit its progression. We are aware that this measure brings its share of drawbacks for the communities. However, this is an exceptional situation that calls for unusual measures. Everything that we are doing, and all our efforts are prioritized based on the health and safety of our staff and patients.

The Network reminds the public to avoid going to emergency rooms with COVID-19-like symptoms. It is imperative that anyone with a cough, fever or breathing difficulties calls Tele-Care at 811 or their family physician. The public is also invited to visit the Health Canada web links and the New Brunswick Chief Medical Officer of Health’s website.