Moncton, November 7, 2012 – Management of the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre wish to inform the public that the facility will be conducting a major cleaning operation that is to include thorough disinfection of its Emergency Department. This will take place between Saturday, November 10 and Monday, November 12.

The facility’s Infection Prevention and Control Department has noted a gradual increase in the number of cases of nosocomial diarrhea caused by the C. difficile bacteria. In such circumstances, measures must immediately be taken to reduce the rate of infection and protect the safety of patients and staff. The Emergency Department is a sensitive sector of the facility, which explains why the disinfection is being conducted there.

The University Hospital Centre is also taking other measures to eliminate the bacteria’s spread, including strengthening hand hygiene by its caregivers and isolating patients with symptoms of diarrhea.

People whose condition does not require urgent care are asked to see their family doctor, visit a walk-in clinic, or call Tele-Care at 811.

Management of the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Centre are seeking the public’s cooperation and reiterate their commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for the facility’s patients, visitors, and staff

Additional information

For further information, consult the Health Canada fact sheet on Clostridium difficile.