NIROVIRUS OUTBREAK TESTS WHAREKAKA RESIDENTS AND STAFF
Recently Wharekaka Rest Home was closed for two weeks due to an outbreak of Nirovirus.
As you may know Nirovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug which has vomiting and diarrhoea as symptoms. It is unknown how the virus entered the facility – but there had been confirmed cases in the community.
The total number of residents who contacted the illness was 10 with two unconfirmed cases of staff members.
The Wairarapa DHB and Public Health were in constant contact with the facility and daily reporting was sent through to the Public Health.
All residents families and friends were kept up to date with progress.
In the early stages of the suspected illness the infection control procedures within the facility swung into action. We immediately used our standard isolation procedures for ill residents. These residents were kept in isolation until they had been clear of symptoms for 48-72 hours.
Staff were all very diligent and professional about giving extra in terms of working safely and well in these isolation circumstances; and the extra hours some had to work to keep Wharekaka staffed and ensuring the residents were carefully monitored during this somewhat difficult time.
The Wharekaka Trust Board wishes to publically thank all staff for their efforts during this very trying time. It is due to staff commitment and diligence that the total number of residents affected by the virus was kept at a low level. Now Wharekaka is open for access again, we look forward to seeing you visit us.
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