Grey Bruce Health Services is investigating a potential case of Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) on the Rehabilitation Unit at the Owen Sound Regional Hospital. While this investigation is ongoing, the Rehab Unit will not be accepting new patients.

CPE can spread from person-to-person, and is resistant to many types of antibiotics. It does not spread through the air, but can survive on surfaces; therefore, handwashing and cleaning are extremely important.

Most people who carry CPE have no symptoms of illness, but for those with symptoms of illness, CPE is very difficult to treat. Antibiotics that may be used in treatment are associated with significant side effects.

A number of precautions are in place to protect patients, visitors and staff. Patients directly impacted are being cared for in single rooms, and visitors and staff in those rooms must wear protective clothing. At this time, there are no other visitor restrictions in place. All visitors to the Owen Sound Hospital are being reminded to wash their hands when entering and exiting the hospital, and before and after entering a patient room. Portable handwashing stations have been installed on the unit (8-1).

Additional cleaning and disinfection have been implemented, and will continue throughout this investigation. More information will be shared when available.

Patient information on CPE is available from Public Health Ontario: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/eRepository/RPAP_Annex_A_CPE_Information_Sheet_2013.pdf

source: media release, GBHS