Investigating possible TB exposure

August 2, 2018: Homewood Health Centre was recently informed by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health of a single case of active Tuberculosis (TB) in the Health Centre. There is no ongoing risk at the Health Centre or to the general public.

WDG Public Health is ensuring appropriate notification, testing and follow-up protocols are in place for the safety of all former and current patients, employees, students and volunteers who could have been potentially exposed.

Tuberculosis rates in Canada are considered low. However, if someone does have an active TB infection they can be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough for three weeks or more, fever, night sweats and weight loss.

WDG Public Health will be working with Homewood officials to do a thorough investigation so anyone who might have been exposed is tested and treated if necessary,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health and CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. “Although the risk is low, Homewood Health Centre and WDG Public Health will be working closely to ensure the safety of all staff and patients.”

For more information about TB visit wdgpublichealth.ca/TB.

Media Contact

Chuck Ferguson, Manager of Communications
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4374
chuck.ferguson@wdgpublichealth.ca

About Homewood Health Centre

Homewood Health Centre is a leader in mental health and addiction services. With over 135 years of experience, the Centre achieves outstanding outcomes every day through a national network of over 4,500 employees and clinical experts, and through the Homewood Health Centre—one of Canada’s largest and leading facilities for medical treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. Homewood Health is redefining mental health and addiction services to help Canadians live healthier, more productive and fulfilling lives.

About Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health

Public health focuses on promoting healthy behaviours and preventing disease and injury by engaging health care providers, community partners and the public to improve the health of everyone. By preventing the onset of health problems, Public Health reduces the demands on other partners in the health care system such as hospitals and clinics.