COVID-19 outbreaks declared at two Toronto hospitals

Unity Health has declared COVID-19 outbreaks at St. Michael’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Health Centre.

The outbreak at St. Michael’s was reported on December 30, and is affecting the hospital’s Operating Rooms, including the Main and Ambulatory ORs, Kidney Stone Centre, and the Pre-operating holding area. The Regional Room is affected as well.

At St. Joseph’s, an outbreak was declared on December 31. It is currently contained to the hospital’s 4E unit.

“Outbreak status means the unit has had two COVID-19 cases within a 14-day period, where both cases could reasonably have been acquired in hospital,” Unity Health said.

The healthcare network is reaching out to patients, staff members, physicians, and learners who have come into contact with an individual who has tested positive for the virus.

According to its website, Unity Health has implemented a number of measures to stop the virus from further spreading through its hospitals.

Affected units have been closed to new admissions, and testing of patients and staff will be increased. Enhanced cleaning and infection control procedures have been put in place as well.

On its website, Unity Health noted there is “no reason to be worried” about visiting any of its hospitals or emergency departments.

“All Unity Health Toronto locations remain safe places to receive care,” the health network said.