Patrick Dessin admits the Calgary Drop-In Centre has been a busy spot during the city’s recent cold snap, and some individuals have turned up with nasty bouts of the winter flu.
However, the 41-year-old, who’s lived at the shelter since last January, isn’t worried about his own well-being.
“They have a good medical staff here,” he said.
“It’s a shelter, people do get sick, but once that happens they really keep it under control.”
Louise Gallagher, spokesperson for the Drop-In Centre, said maintenance staff constantly clean high-traffic areas and the building’s lower three floors feature high ceilings to improve air circulation.
“Particularly in times when flus are going around, we step up the sterilization and use of sanitizers,” she said.
The Mustard Seed has also been near capacity of late, and spokesperson Courtney Johnson said clients are constantly reminded to wash their hands and inform staff if they are feeling ill.
“If that’s the case, we may relocate those clients to a part of the shelter that’s a little more private.”
