Two acute infectious disease units, each with 15 beds
All rooms are single occupancy and equipped with airlock systems, enabling the safe isolation of patients who present a high risk of infection or are affected by contagious diseases
National Reference Centre for Highly Contagious Diseases
- SARS, MERS-CoV
- Avian influenza
- Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
Tuberculosis Centre of Excellence
The department includes a 10-bed respiratory isolation ward (Gustave Derscheid Long-Stay Unit). It is dedicated to the management of tuberculosis cases that are difficult to treat on an outpatient basis. . Care is provided in close collaboration with FARES and VRGT.
CHU Saint-Pierre is recognised as a centre of excellence in tuberculosis care, particularly multi-drug-resistant forms. In collaboration with the Department of Respiratory Medicine, FARES and VRGT, each year, between 100 and 200 patients with tuberculosis are admitted. Maintaining respiratory isolation in an acute care ward can be challenging, both for patients and healthcare professionals.
The creation of a dedicated long-stay unit addresses this important public health need. Offering care to all patients, including the most vulnerable, providing high-quality, individualised treatment and ensuring more humane living conditions during their stay. The unit has been designed in accordance with international standards for airborne infections, while also prioritising a patient-centred environment.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis remains a major public health concern. Although overall incidence in Belgium is stable and relatively low, the disease is concentrated in large cities, disproportionately affecting socially vulnerable populations. In recent years, the proportion of patients who are homeless or experiencing severe socio-economic hardship has increased significantly, reaching 28% in 2017. Furthermore, so-called multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis has emerged, requiring longer and more complex treatment regimens.
Treatment
The treatment of tuberculosis involves an initial period of hospitalisation in strict respiratory isolation, followed by a prolonged course of outpatient treatment. Adherence to treatment is essential to ensure recovery and prevent transmission of the disease. For many patients, prolonged isolation can be psychologically challenging. The outpatient phase represents a critical period during which there is a risk of treatment discontinuation.
The Derscheid Unit
It is arranged over two floors connected by a dedicated lift. On the ground floor, the patients’ rooms are located in an area separate from the staff zone. The first floor, dedicated to recreational and psycho-educational activities (library, computer facilities, occupational therapy and fitness room, dining room), has access to a large terrace.
Beyond medical care, the unit aims to use these long stays to support patients’ social reintegration. Educators help patients develop practical and personal skills. Literacy classes are also provided
In practice
Admission requests can be made through the social services department. Following approval by the consultant in charge, patients may be transferred from acute inpatient wards (CHU Saint-Pierre or other hospitals in Belgium) once clinically stable. They may be admitted when outpatient follow-up is difficult, despite support from FARES or VRGT
in collaboration with general practitioners. Patients remain in the unit for as long as they are contagious and / or until continuity of outpatient care is not possible.
Contact: admissions808@stpierre-bru.be
