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COVID-19 Coronavirus Information for Manitoba Renal Patients

March 12, 2020 | News, Patient News

You can view this information in pdf format here.
To view this information in French, click here.
Information in Cree.
Information in Ojibway.

What do I need to know?

If you have kidney disease, you are at a higher risk of getting an infection. Chronic kidney disease or kidney failure can lead to a weaker immune system. The information in this hand out can help you manage the risk of COVID-19.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Mild Symptoms

Cough
Muscle aches
Headache
Sore throat/Hoarse voice
Fever/Chills
Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
Loss of taste or smell
Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours
Runny nose
Fatigue
Nausea or loss of appetite
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Skin rash of unknown cause

I don’t have any flu-like symptoms. Can I still come to appointments at my renal/dialysis unit?

All renal/dialysis patients without symptoms should come to appointments unless your unit contacts you to make a change. Tell your unit if you have travelled to a region that requires you to isolate for 14 days upon your return.

NO VISITORS IN UNITS: Visitors are still not allowed in outpatient areas of are which includes dialysis units. Thank you for your understanding as we take every measure to protect you, your loved ones and our staff. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

In-centre hemodialysis patients:

All hemodialysis patients need to continue to come for their life-sustaining dialysis treatment. The hospitals and units are implementing many measures to ensure all hemodialysis patients are provided the safest care. Dialysis treatments are life-sustaining and coming to the hospital for regularly scheduled dialysis treatments in a carefully managed environment is the SAFEST option for hemodialysis patients. Patients who skip or miss dialysis treatments may experience adverse health outcomes and require emergency medical services such as urgent care or emergency room care. If you have symptoms – see the info below.

If I have flu-like symptoms – what should I do?

If you have symptoms :

CALL Health Links – Info Santé 1-888-315-9257 or 204-788-8200. If you need urgent medical care, call 911. Make sure they know you are a dialysis patient.

THEN
CALL YOUR RENAL UNIT before you leave your house for a dialysis treatment or clinic visit
DO NOT COME TO THE DIALYSIS UNIT, UNTIL you have talked to your Dialysis Unit. We will plan for your dialysis in a way that keeps you and others from being exposed to COVID-19.
If you have been tested for COVID-19 at another location, please phone and alert the dialysis unit BEFORE coming for dialysis

How can I lower my risk of getting an infection?

We want to keep you and your family safe. We also need to ensure that you have access to a safe place for your renal/dialysis care. No visitors are allowed in the unit and you may be asked questions, and asked to wash hands or use hand sanitizer, when you come for your appointment.

Call 1-888-315-9257 OR your renal/dialysis unit if you are unwell so that we can keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible. Here are steps that you and your family can do to help lower the risk of infection:

How do I protect myself and my family from COVID-19 and other flu-like illness?

Limit travel. The risk of exposure to COVID-19 may be higher in other areas of Canada. Do not travel to areas that require you to isolate for 14 days upon returning.
Wash your hands: Before, during and after making meals, Before, during and after making meals, Before eating, After using the toilet, When your hands are dirty
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. Use a tissue or your sleeve. Throw tissues you have used in the garbage and wash your hands right away.
Stay six feet (two meters) away from others when possible.
Try not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
Do not shake hands or give hugs.
Do not share items such as drinking glasses, spoons/forks or tooth brushes.
Clean (disinfect) surfaces such as phones, computer, tables, chairs, countertops, door knobs.
Avoid groups of people.