Winneshiek Medical Center says it is ready to handle Ebola patients

Winneshiek Medical Center Infection Preventionist Brenda Schwan says the hospital has NOT had any Ebola patients, but adds "We are prepared to identify, isolate, and coordinate treatment for patients suspected of having Ebola Virus Disease should the need arise."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Iowa Department of Public Health, the risk of community spread of Ebola Virus Disease in the United States is very low.  Cases may be more likely among recent travelers from West Africa and their close contacts.

Schwan says, "Winneshiek Medical Center has a process to identify patients with recent travel to affected regions or with close contact with an Ebola patient and will quickly isolate and coordinate care with facilities prepared to handle treatment of Ebola patients.  As always, we will treat patients with a suspected infectious disease with an abundance of caution."

WMC Board members will receive a report Wednesday at their monthly meeting about the hospital's preparedness to handle Ebola patients.  To clarify once again, Winneshiek Medical Center, Mayo Clinic Health System, and Mayo Clinic do NOT have a suspected or confirmed Ebola Virus Disease case at any of their sites, but are prepared to care for these patients if necessary.