Update to COVID-19 outbreak at Chartwell Malaspina Care Residence

Island Health’s outbreak response has identified two additional cases of COVID-19 related to the outbreak which was declared at Chartwell Malaspina Care Residence long-term care home in Nanaimo.

One additional resident and one staff member have tested positive. The new cases were detected through a second round of mass testing performed this week and we received confirmation of these positive results on January 5. The new resident case is in an individual who resides on the same unit where the outbreak was initially identified, while the staff member was also cohorted to that unit. The outbreak remains confined to two units on the first floor of the home. Communication with residents, families and staff is ongoing.

Since the outbreak was declared, more than 360 COVID-19 tests have been performed on residents and staff at Malaspina. In total, seven residents and one staff member have tested positive. All other results received to date are negative. The origin of the outbreak remains under investigation.

The following steps are underway as part of the outbreak response at the home:

•    COVID-positive residents have been isolated to their rooms;
•    The affected units have been isolated from the rest of the building;
•    Staff movement on the affected units is restricted;
•    All visitation, admissions and transfers have been stopped;
•    Enhanced cleaning protocols and use of personal protective equipment;
•    Island Health continues to have a presence at the home to support the outbreak response;
•    Staffing levels and supply of personal protective equipment are being closely monitored and Island Health is supporting where needed, to ensure safe resident care continues

Malaspina is owned and operated by Chartwell Retirement Residences. Island Health will continue to work with Chartwell Malaspina leadership and staff to respond to this outbreak and protect the health of all residents and staff.