Glendive Medical Center Shares Precautions for Viruses

Glendive Medical Center (GMC) is taking all proactive measures to protect patients and staff and stop the spread of illness this influenza season. Patients are required to wear facemasks if they are presenting with respiratory symptoms including cough, cold, and upper respiratory symptoms, or are immunocompromised. Facemasks are not recommended for people who are well to protect themselves from respiratory diseases.

We appreciate the understanding of the community to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses,” stated MJ Marx, Director of Quality. “At this time, if you exhibit mild respiratory illness symptoms which include mild fever, cough, runny nose, and body aches, we advise you to please stay home to help prevent the spread of the illness. However, if you develop severe symptoms of respiratory illness or have difficulty breathing, please call your healthcare provider or visit the Emergency Department.”
 

Glendive Medical Center is also staying abreast of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and staff is prepared in the event a patient presents with symptoms. Symptoms are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Severe complications include pneumonia in both lungs. At this time, the Coronavirus has not been detected in Montana or Wyoming. Patients who have symptoms that develop within 2-14 days after close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19, are advised to contact their healthcare professional.

“As with all viruses, it is important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, clean and disinfect frequently, stay home if you are sick, and be sure to get your flu shot,” states MJ.