Island Health has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on the Transitional Care Unit at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH). Four patients have tested positive for COVID-19. The outbreak is limited to the Transitional Care Unit.
The first patient tested positive on October 31 after becoming symptomatic. Island Health immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing to protect the health of all patients, staff and medical staff. Follow-up testing identified three additional patient cases.
Until further notice, no new admissions will be allowed to the Transitional Care Unit, and movement in and out of the unit will be monitored and restricted. Visitation on the unit will be limited to essential visits only at this time.
It is important to note that this outbreak is limited to the Transitional Care Unit and no other areas of the hospital are currently affected. 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.
Island Health has implemented comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to COVID-19 in long-term care, acute care, assisted living and licensed facilities.
Communication with patients, families and staff is ongoing.
For more information about COVID-19, please visit: www.islandhealth.ca/covid19.