Cambridge Memorial Hospital, located just outside of Toronto, has publicly announced a COVID-19 outbreak in its inpatient mental health unit. This announcement comes on the heels of two patients being officially diagnosed with the virus. The outbreak originated in Wing A of Level 3. This could indicate a serious risk of how the disease itself is spreading throughout this vulnerable population.
The hospital released a statement detailing the situation, emphasizing that an outbreak is declared when two or more patients or staff test positive for an infectious illness acquired within the hospital. Additionally, the timeframe for the infections is very much in line with the epidemiology of COVID-19, showing a clear causal link between the case.
The hospital is working with state officials to continue to contain the outbreak. At the same time, they’re taking all the right measures to prevent further spread of the virus. The administration now expects that, provided no other new cases are found, the outbreak could be deemed over by this coming Monday.
“A hospital outbreak is declared when two or more patients and/or staff test positive for an infectious illness that was acquired in hospital within a timeframe that is consistent with the epidemiology of the disease, and when there is a link between the cases,” – Cambridge Memorial Hospital.
The executive leadership team at Cambridge Memorial Hospital continues to lead the change and make sure all patients and employees are safe. They are following public health guidelines to mitigate any further spread and provide care to those affected by the outbreak.
Hospital leadership doesn’t take this situation lightly. They encourage those who are symptomatic or at risk for COVID-19 exposure to get tested and continue following public health safety protocols. The health and well-being of patients and staff continues to be the hospital’s highest priority during this difficult time.
