A major Edmonton care home is grappling with a severe mice infestation, raising serious health concerns. The operator of the Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre, Covenant Health, has acknowledged the issue and is taking steps to address it. However, the Alberta NDP claims the problem has been ongoing for months, with authorities alerted six months ago.
Despite recent efforts, including hiring a new pest control company, the situation remains critical. Health critic Sarah Hoffman, who visited the facility, found evidence of mice droppings in a resident's room, highlighting the ongoing issue. Health Canada warns that mice droppings can pose a significant health risk, particularly from deer mice, which can cause hantavirus infection.
Volunteer Ron Guetter, who visits the unit rooms, has also witnessed mice and mouse traps. He describes a resident's terrifying experience of mice crawling on her bed, emphasizing the need for better conditions, especially for those in their final stages of life.
The centre, accommodating nearly 500 people, is run by publicly funded Covenant Health. Hoffman calls for stronger whistleblower protections and urges the government to support a private member's bill to empower healthcare workers to raise concerns. The situation has sparked a debate on the importance of resident safety and the need for immediate action.
