Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Middlesex-London Health Unit
Potential Tuberculosis exposure
The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) has been working closely with London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) and St Joseph's Health Care London (St Joseph's) to identify those at risk of a potential tuberculosis (TB) exposure, and to notify the affected individuals. The individual who has been identified as having tuberculosis is a health care provider who worked at both hospitals.
The risk of contracting TB from an infected person through casual or short term contact is very low, and we do not believe there is a high risk of disease spread within the hospitals as a result of this exposure.
"The safety and well-being of all patients and stuff at LHSC and St Joseph's is of utmost importance, and we will continue to work together with the MLHU to ensure that all individuals at potential risk are identified and assessed as quickly as possible", said Dr. Robin Walker, Integrated Vice President, Medical Affairs and Medical Education, HLSC and St Joseph's.
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium, which in most cases affects the lungs, but can occur anywhere in the body. Symptoms of tuberculosis can include cough, fever, night sweats and weight loss. The most likely spread of the tuberculosis bacteria occurs through frequent and prolonged exposure in the same room with someone who has the disease.
“As of this morning, contact has been initiated with all staff and patients who have been identified as having possible exposure to this individual, either by phone, hand delivered letter, or both,” said Dr. Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health at MLHU. “There is no on-going public risk related to this case.”
The MLHU is available to those with further questions about TB at 519-663-5317 ext 5253, or TBinfo@mlhu.on.ca. Additional information about TB and TB treatment is available at www.healthunit.com/tuberculosis.
Media interviews will be available with Dr. Christopher Mackie and Dr. Robin Walker today from 2:45pm to 3:45pm.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty
Middlesex-London Health Unit
Manager, Communications
519-663-5317 ext 2469
dan.flaherty@mlhu.on.ca
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