Island Health has declared a new COVID-19 outbreak at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH).
Three patients have tested positive and the outbreak is limited to the high intensity rehab unit, Island Health said. The first patient tested positive on April 12 after becoming symptomatic and follow-up testing identified two additional patient cases.
Island Health said no other areas of the hospital are currently affected and it immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing to protect the health of all patients, staff, medical staff and students.
As part of the outbreak management strategy, all patients and staff in the affected unit will be tested for COVID-19.
Until further notice, no new admissions will be allowed to the high intensity rehab unit and staff movement between other units is restricted. No patients from the unit will be transferred to long-term care or assisted living.
“The hospital is still a safe place and people should not avoid seeking emergency care if they require it. All outpatient services and scheduled procedures will continue as normal,” reads a news release.
Island Health has implemented comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to COVID-19 in long-term care, acute care, assisted living and independent living facilities.
Communication with patients, families and staff is ongoing.
