Island Health declared an outbreak of COVID-19 at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital on Saturday after three tested positive for the virus.
The outbreak at NRGH is limited to the east wing of the fourth floor.
The health authority says a staff member first tested positive for the deadly virus on Jan. 19 after becoming symptomatic. The other individuals — one patient and one staff member — were later identified as being positive for COVID-19 through testing.
“Island Health immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing to protect the health of all patients, staff and medical staff,” the health authority said in a press release.
Island Health says there will be no new admissions will be allowed into the fourth floor of the hospital’s east wing and staff working in the unit will no longer be working in other units.
“In addition, no transfers of patients from the fourth floor, fifth floor or rehab unit out to long term care, assisted living or congregate settings will take place. This is out of an abundance of caution while the investigation is underway and contact tracing is completed, the health authority said.
Island Health says a total of 63 patients and 58 staff members have been tested for COVID-19, and enhanced surveillance testing is continuing.
Communication with patients, families and staff is ongoing.
It’s the second time an outbreak of COVID-19 has been declared at the hospital.
Nicholas Pescod
