Update to COVID-19 outbreak at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

Island Health’s outbreak response has identified one additional case related to the outbreak declared on April 14 in the High Intensity Rehab Unit at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH).

The additional case, in a patient, was identified through testing of all patients on the unit. All other test results in patients were negative. Testing of staff on the unit continues and all results received to date have been negative. In total, four patients have tested positive related to this outbreak.

Until further notice, no new admissions will be allowed to the High Intensity Rehab Unit, and staff working between other units is restricted. No patients from the unit will be transferred to long-term care or assisted living.

The outbreak remains limited to the High Intensity Rehab Unit and no other areas of the hospital are currently affected. The hospital is still a safe place and people should not avoid seeking emergency care if they require it. All outpatient services and scheduled procedures will continue as normal.

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.
Communication with patients, families and staff is ongoing.

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