An outbreak of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at the East Wing of Rainycrest Long Term Care Home has been declared over, and all resident and visitor restrictions at the home have been lifted, according to Riverside Health.
Enhanced masking requirements are still in effect at all Riverside facilities for all visitors, care partners, staff and volunteers when in resident care areas and common areas.
“We continue to remind the public that infection prevention is a shared responsibility,” Riverside Health said in a press release Tuesday. “All individuals are asked to self-screen before visiting patients or residents at any Riverside facility and to avoid visiting if they are feeling unwell, particularly if experiencing cold- or flu-like symptoms. Practicing proper hand hygiene when entering and leaving the building remains essential.”
RSV is a very common virus that infects the lungs and airways, usually causing cold‑like symptoms. Most children encounter it by age two, and in healthy older kids and adults it typically stays mild. However, it can become serious in infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, sometimes leading to pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, and while there’s no specific cure, supportive care helps most people recover within one to two weeks.
