Grey Bruce Health Services closed the in-patient unit at the Southampton Hospital after five patients tested positive for MRSA.
Public Relations Officer Jim Merriam says it’s a precautionary measure since none of the patients are sick with the bacteria.
The emergency room remains open this weekend, but any patients that require admission will be sent to other local hosptial’s.
There are also visitor restrictions at the Southampton hospital, including strict hand washing protocols.
Only one visitor is allowed per patient, and no children under 10 and no pets will be allowed.
The in-patient unit will remain closed until two consecutive swabs show the bacteria is gone.
And since officials have to wait 72 hours before each swab, it will be after Labour Day before the in-patient unit is open again.
MRSA is spread from one person to another by contact, usually on the hands of visitors or caregivers.
