Island Health has identified one additional case of COVID-19 related to the outbreak which was declared at Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens long-term care home in Port Alberni on November 16.
One of the residents deemed as a close contact to the initial staff case has tested positive for COVID-19. We received confirmation of this positive result on November 25. This resident was one of the three initially deemed as a close contact to the initial staff case, is not currently experiencing symptoms, and we do not suspect this positive test is indicative of widespread transmission within the facility.
Including this positive result, one staff member and two residents have tested positive for COVID-19 related to this outbreak.
All residents and staff who work at the site received a second COVID-19 test earlier this week. At this time, no additional cases have been identified.
Communication with residents and families is underway.
Since the outbreak was declared on November 16, the residents considered close contacts to the initial staff case have been isolated in their rooms, the unit where their rooms are located has been isolated from the rest of the building, and staff movement has been restricted within the facility.
Staff caring for the three residents deemed close contacts have been using enhanced personal protective equipment, and personal protective equipment use across the site has also been enhanced to reduce the risk of transmission.
During this time, Island Health will continue to have additional presence at the site to take any further actions required, support the facility and answer questions from staff, residents and family members.
Island Health has implemented comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to COVID-19 in long-term care, acute care, assisted living and independent living facilities.
For more information about COVID-19, please visit: www.islandhealth.ca/covid19.