The respiratory outbreak declared on July 13, 2026, in the McMillan Garden unit at Golden Plough Lodge has now been confirmed to be caused by rhinovirus.
The lodge reports there are currently three confirmed cases and three suspected cases, all within McMillan Garden.
To limit the spread of the virus and bring the outbreak to an end as quickly as possible, several infection prevention measures have been implemented.
Residents who are symptomatic or who may have been exposed are being isolated in their rooms whenever possible. Dining room service has been suspended for McMillan Garden residents to reduce the risk of additional infections, and respiratory testing continues for residents displaying symptoms.
Residents identified as close contacts of symptomatic individuals will remain in isolation for a minimum of five days while staff monitor them for the development of symptoms. Staff are also conducting health checks on all McMillan Garden residents each shift.
Families, substitute decision-makers and powers of attorney will be notified if a resident tests positive.
Golden Plough Lodge is also asking the public to help reduce the spread of the virus by limiting visits during the outbreak.
Visitors are strongly encouraged to postpone non-essential visits until the outbreak has been declared over. Those who do visit are encouraged to wear a mask when entering McMillan Garden, with visits taking place in residents’ rooms whenever possible. For residents in isolation, room visits are mandatory.
The lodge reminds visitors that the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when entering the room of a resident on additional precautions, in accordance with Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care requirements. Visitors are asked to remove PPE before leaving an isolation room.
Passive screening remains in effect for everyone entering Golden Plough Lodge.
In addition, life enrichment activities in McMillan Garden have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
