A respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) outbreak has ended at the Special Care Unit (SCU) and West Wing at Rainycrest Long Term Care Home, although the outbreak remains active on the East Wing, Riverside Health Care said Wednesday.
“Enhanced masking protocols remain in effect across all Riverside facilities as part of ongoing infection prevention and control practices,” Riverside said in a press release. “Medical masks are required in all patient and resident care areas, including patient and resident rooms, hallways, treatment areas, waiting areas, and common or shared spaces where care is provided.”
“We continue to remind the public that infection prevention is a shared responsibility,” Riverside said.
“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.”
Riverside, in consultation with the Northwestern Public Health Unit, has implemented precautions throughout the home to help protect residents, staff and visitors. As a result, all visitors are required to wear medical masks and additional personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the circumstances.
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.
