A fifth patient has tested positive for COVID-19 in the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital’s transitional care unit.
Island Health declared an outbreak at the facility on Nov. 1 after evidence of transmission within the unit. The first case was identified on Oct. 31 and follow-up tests identified four more cases.
“The outbreak continues to be limited to the transitional care unit and NRGH remains a safe place to seek care. People should not avoid seeking emergency care if they need it,” the health authority said in a media release.
No new admissions will be allowed to the unit until further notice, according to the release. Visitation is limited to essential visitors for now. Island Health said it immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing.
Communication with patients, families and staff is ongoing, according to Island Health.
