Update to COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital

Island Health has identified four additional cases of COVID-19 related to the outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital. One patient and three staff members have tested positive for the virus, bringing the total to six patients and four staff members.

Island Health declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital on December 1, and immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing to protect the health of all patients, staff and medical staff. The outbreak is limited to acute care areas. The initial round of patient testing is completed and staff testing continues.

Outpatient services, including lab and medical imaging, remain open but the hospital is closed to acute admissions.

We would like to reassure the community that the emergency department remains open and ready to provide safe care. If you require emergency care, please do not hesitate to visit the emergency room immediately.

Island Health has implemented comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to COVID-19 in all acute and long-term care facilities. Dedicated COVID-19 units are established at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital to safely care for patients with COVID-19.

For more information about COVID-19, please visit: www.islandhealth.ca/covid19