COVID-19 Outbreak at St. Joseph’s General Hospital
Michelle Pinon
News Advertiser
Covenant Health is currently investigating an outbreak of COVID-19 at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville.
According to Karen Diaper, Communications Manager for Covenant Health, the outbreak was declared on December 3. “Currently, there are eight patients who have tested positive for COVID-19.”
Diaper went on to say, “We are working with Public Health. We immediately implemented outbreak protocols to ensure the ongoing protection of our patients, staff and visitors. We have tested all non-COVID-19 patients and are also testing all staff, even if they are not showing symptoms. All potential contacts are being traced to ensure we reduce the possibility of spread.
We continue to work with the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health of Alberta and Alberta Health Services to ensure our hospital is safe and are following protocols to minimize risk of spread including:
- Thorough environmental cleaning with strong disinfectants;
- Ensuring proper usage of PPE, including donning and doffing;
- Ensuring proper physical distancing on units and common areas;
- Ensuring proper hand hygiene practices are being followed.
We care deeply for our patients and staff. We are doing everything we can to contain transmission and keep patients safe and healthy.”
Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee did confirm the news late Friday and that he is currently waiting for an official statement from Covenant Health and Alberta Health Services.
MacPhee is urging residents to stay home and not to let anyone into your house other than the people that live there. He also recommended that only one person do the shopping in a household.
