2023-07-25 17:17:58
Title: Norovirus Outbreak Hits Almere Nursing Home, Residents Take Precautions
Subtitle: Five residents infected as nursing home implements measures to prevent further spread
Almere Stad, Netherlands – In a concerning development, the highly contagious Norovirus has broken out in the De Kiekendief nursing home in Almere Stad, resulting in the infection of five residents. As a precautionary measure, the affected department has been closed off to prevent further spread within the facility.
Frederique Mensink, spokesperson for Zorggroep Almere, the organization overseeing De Kiekendief, revealed that four of the infected individuals resided in the same department. Measures have been taken to protect the remaining residents and staff members from contracting the virus.
“Our primary focus is the well-being of our residents, and we are taking every step to minimize the spread of the Norovirus,” said Mensink. “To contain the virus, infected residents are being advised to stay within their department, with meals being delivered to their rooms.”
In addition to the residents and their families, visitors have also been briefed on the situation through a letter. They are requested to limit their time within the facility and restrict their movements to the specific department they are visiting.
Mensink highlighted that all employees have received additional guidelines to adhere to in order to prevent further contamination. “Strict hygiene protocols are being followed, including more frequent handwashing and an increase in the frequency of toilet cleaning,” she explained.
The occurrence of Norovirus outbreaks in nursing homes is not uncommon, according to Mensink. “The virus tends to spread more easily in such settings due to shared living spaces and joint activities,” she stated. Almost all nursing homes face similar challenges, given that residents live together in communal areas, increasing the risk of possible transmission.
However, despite the prevalent risk, Mensink expressed hope that the outbreak would not affect more individuals. “Ideally, we want to contain the virus within the existing cases. Although symptoms usually last for a few days, it is undeniably an inconvenience,” she added.
The De Kiekendief nursing home, home to 104 residents, will continue to take necessary precautions to safeguard the health and well-being of its residents and staff members. Collaboration between 1Almere and Omroep Flevoland has helped bring this information to light.
This story was created by Engeline Keizer, whose focus for 1Almere is covering stories from Almere, a vibrant city in the Netherlands.]
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