CK Public Health has declared an outbreak in a local long-term care facility after one positive case.
A staff member at Riverview Gardens is in self-isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. CK Public Health has notified and isolated staff and residents who may have been exposed to the person.
The health unit says an outbreak is declared in a long-term care home when it meets Ministry of Health criteria. One positive case is enough to declare an outbreak.
“Riverview Gardens has implemented outbreak management protocols, and all residents and staff have been notified”, said Dr. David Colby, Medical Officer of Health. “We are continuing to investigate and monitor the situation, and support the facility with education on infection prevention and control.”
This is the first outbreak in long-term care in Chatham-Kent since the pandemic began.
Public health reminds local residents that it takes all of our efforts to protect our most vulnerable residents. They encourage continuing to follow public health advice to keep COVID-19 controlled in our community. This includes: only travel for essential purposes, physically distance (2 metres) from others, wear a mask, wash your hands or use 70% alcohol hand sanitizer frequently, and stay home if you are unwell.
