By Thomas I.Likness
EBC Edmonton Bureau

EDMONTON (Eagle News) — Alberta health care workers toiling to care for patients are facing discrimination when they leave the workplace, according to Alberta Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw.

“I have recently heard disturbing reports of health care professionals experiencing discrimination due to the fear that they will be more likely to carry the virus,” said Hinshaw. “This discrimination even includes threats of eviction from their homes.”

Hinshaw encouraged people to continue to place their trust in health care professionals and said doctors, nurses and medical staff are doing a tremendous job in a very difficult time.

“Instead of being afraid, we should continue to work together and be prepared to prevent the spread, stay informed and flatten the curve,” added Hinshaw. “I assure these trained professionals are going above and beyond to stop the spread of the virus both at their workplaces and in their homes.”

– Hospital visits restricted –

The Alberta government also announced Friday that, in an effort to prevent community transmission of the coronavirus, patients in hospital will no longer be allowed to have any visitors.

“It becomes evermore important that we are minimizing the chance that someone may unwittingly bring in a virus to a hospital,” said Hinshaw. “The fewer people that who come into any given place, the more the chances are reduced that the virus could be brought in.”

She said there will be some exceptions for young children admitted to hospital, as well as women giving birth. These will be granted on a case by case basis.

“Please plan to support loved ones in hospitals with virtual visits,” said Hinshaw.

– Albertans told to change vacation plans –

Looking ahead, Hinshaw said people should not be thinking about major vacations.

“It is particularly important that as spring approaches we make different decisions about our vacations,” advised Hinshaw. “Please do not plan to travel to vacation homes, especially those in other provinces and in smaller communities.”

She said people need to stay close to home in the coming months to limit the spread of the virus.

(Eagle News Service)