Surrey declares health outbreaks in care homes based on severity, transmission rate, and expert direction. Here’s how sites manage risks and protect visitors.
Surrey Tightens Outbreak Measures in Care Facilities
Long-term and acute care sites in Surrey follow a structured process to declare infectious outbreaks, guided by medical health officers and infection control protocols. These measures are critical to safeguard vulnerable populations and prevent the rapid spread of illness.
Medical Authority Triggers the Declaration
Outbreaks are declared under the authority of a medical health officer (MHO) or their designate. In long-term care or assisted living facilities, an outbreak may be declared when there’s a rise in illness severity, number of cases, or transmission speed. For acute care hospitals, the decision may also be made by a medical microbiologist, specifically trained to assess health care–associated infections.
Sites Placed Under Enhanced Control
Once the risk factors are assessed, care neighborhoods may be placed under outbreak protocols. These measures include restricting movement, isolating symptomatic individuals, and implementing enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocols. Infection prevention teams work directly with site leadership to coordinate the response.
Ongoing Communication Ensures Control
Once an outbreak is confirmed in a long-term care setting, the medical health officer ensures regular updates to staff and patients. In acute care, infection control experts lead communication and provide site-specific outbreak management guidance. Constant coordination ensures the outbreak remains contained and monitored.
Visitor Precautions Strictly Enforced
During an outbreak, visitor guidelines are tightened. Anyone experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, fever, or rash is urged not to visit. Hand hygiene stations with alcohol-based rubs are placed at all entry and exit points. In respiratory outbreaks, visitors may be required to wear masks and limit their presence to designated areas only.
Public Guidance and Transparency
Facilities post clear outbreak notices at unit entrances and offer information pamphlets. Visitors are asked to report to the nursing station before entering patient rooms, and avoid public spaces such as cafeterias or lounges. These steps are essential to prevent cross-contamination and ensure patient safety.
A Community-First Approach to Public Health
Fraser Health, responsible for Surrey’s public health services, emphasizes that outbreak measures are not only clinical responses but also part of a community-wide effort to prevent further spread. Regular monitoring, informed communication, and public cooperation remain key to keeping Surrey’s health care environment safe and resilient.
