COVID-19: patient visits restricted

Bathurst, Friday, March 13, 2020 - Vitalité Health Network informs the public that as of today, visits are limited to a maximum of two immediate family members or designated care partners per patient within all its hospitals.

This measure comes into effect immediately until further notice in order to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus and ensure the safety of care in our facilities. Prevention is the key to reducing the extent of the virus spread.

"COVID-19 has gained a lot of ground in the last few days and the first confirmed case has been reported in New Brunswick. Patients’ and employees’ safety is our top priority. Our main responsibility is to ensure that they are not put at risk," said Gilles Lanteigne, President and CEO of Vitalité Health Network.

The Network would also like to remind everyone who has travelled outside Canada (including the United States) that visits are prohibited for 14 days following their return to Canada.

In addition, the Network asks the population to avoid emergency rooms in the event of symptoms similar to COVID-19. Anyone with a cough, fever or difficulty breathing should contact the 811 Tele-Care line.

The Network thanks the public for their understanding and apologizes for any inconvenience caused by these preventative measures.