The main Fort McMurray evacuation site in Edmonton is now dealing with what appears to be an outbreak of a stomach virus.
said Monday it is responding to a sudden increase of people at the Northlands evacuation and reception centre who are experiencing symptoms 鈥渃onsistent with viral gastroenteritis.鈥�
Dr. Chris Sikora, the lead medical officer of health for the Edmonton zone, told reporters that 40 to 50 adults and kids have come down with vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. He said such infections tend to be 鈥渜uite transmissible.鈥�
AHS said in a statement Monday morning that the outbreak 鈥渋s not unexpected, given the large numbers of people who are using and living at that site.鈥�
Officials with AHS and the City of Edmonton say they have begun a plan to manage the illnesses and to help prevent further spread.
EMS crews and nurse practitioners are at the centre to help care for those with symptoms. Those who are sick are being offered housing in a separate area of Expo Hall, which officials say should help limit the spread of the infection.
As well, Alberta Environmental Public Health staff are helping with the disinfection of washroom and shower facilities. AHS has also increased access to hand sanitizer at the site.
鈥淭he evacuation/reception centre at Northlands remains safe for anyone still at the site, and for new arrivals to Edmonton,鈥� said in a statement.
Those planning to visit family or loved ones at the Northlands centre are being asked to stay away if they feel ill.
Those at the centre are also being advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after using the washroom; before and after eating or preparing food; and after changing diapers.
There are currently around 600 residents staying at the the Northlands Expo Centre which has beds for as many as 1,300 evacuees.
