Island Health has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital after three patients tested positive for the virus.
The outbreak is limited to the hospital’s high intensity rehabilitation unit, Island Health said Wednesday.
The first patient tested positive on Monday after developing symptoms.
Island Health said it has implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing. Subsequent testing identified two additional patient cases for a total of three on Wednesday.
All patients and staff on the affected unit are being tested for COVID-19.
No new admissions will be made to the high intensity rehab unit and staff movement between units is restricted, said Island Health. As well, no patients in the unit awaiting transfer to long-term care or assisted living will be moved.
No other areas of the hospital are affected by the outbreak, said Island Health.
“The hospital is still a safe place and people should not avoid seeking emergency care if they require it,” the health authority said in a statement. Outpatient services and scheduled procedures will continue.
The health authority said it is updating patients, families and staff about the outbreak.
