Limits put on visitation at hospitals, long-term care homes in southern Sask.

The recent rise in cases of COVID-19 variants of concern in southern Saskatchewan has prompted the Saskatchewan Health Authority to limit visitation at a number of health-care facilities and long-term care homes.

Starting Friday at 8 a.m., family presence or visitation is being restricted to Level 3 palliative or end-of-life care at the Regina General and Pasqua hospitals.

As of 5 p.m. Thursday, the same limitations are to be in place at hospitals and long-term care homes in Arcola, Balcarres, Bengough, Broadview, Carlyle, Carnduff, Estevan, Fillmore, Fort Qu’Appelle, Gainsborough, Indian Head, Kipling, Lampman, Maryfield, Midale, Montmartre, Moose Jaw, Moosomin, Oxbow, Radville, Redvers, Stoughton, Wawota, Weyburn, Whitewood and Wolseley.

“The decision to restrict family presence is not taken lightly,” the SHA said in a media release. “These measures are in place to keep you, your loved ones, and health-care workers safe.”

In Level 3, two family members or support people can be present at the same time for end-of-life care only. One person can be designated to help with care (self-care, mobility, nutrition and behavioural needs) if it’s required.

More family members could be allowed in some circumstances, including critical care, intensive care, maternal, postpartum or pediatric units.

No other visitors will be allowed into the hospitals or homes. The limitations are to be reviewed in two weeks.

Everyone who wants to enter the facilities must undergo health screening, including a temperature check and questionnaire. Hand-washing and masks are required, and family members or support people can’t wait in waiting rooms or other common areas.