Please be advised of the temporary closure of Rosthern Hospital effective Sunday, October 18 at 2:00 p.m. until further notice, as the result of a COVID positive case and associated contact tracing now underway within the hospital. During this time, emergency services and all outpatient services will not be available at the facility. In the event of an emergency call 9-1-1 and an ambulance will be dispatched to provide assistance. Non-urgent health related questions can be directed to the provincial HealthLine 811, by dialing 8-1-1.
For every single positive case of COVID-19, Public Health interviews the case to determine with whom they have had contact during their infectious period. Infection Prevention Control and Occupational Health and Safety are immediately notified of all positive tests in SHA facilities and engaged to ensure all appropriate protocols are in place. Any staff members who are identified as close contacts of the COVID positive case will be required to be put on self-isolation until further risk assessments can be completed. As a result of these measures, given the current impact on staffing, a number of patients have been cleared to be transferred to other facilities.
The health and safety of our patients and the employees who care for them is of utmost importance to the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Keeping the people we serve, our employees and physicians healthy and safe, is paramount to the work we do each and every day.
The public is reminded to please take precautions to protect yourself, your families and everyone who lives in the community. COVID-19 is present in Saskatchewan and we all have a responsibility to minimize the spread of the disease.
It is also important for everyone to follow the guidelines for hand washing, social distancing and self-isolating shared by provincial and municipal governments to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus and protect our most vulnerable populations. Together, we can make a positive difference in our community by reducing the spread.