Sunnybrook Hospital declares coronavirus outbreak

Oct 23 2020, 1:18 pm

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre has declared a COVID-19 outbreak after five patients tested positive for the virus.

The hospital confirmed the outbreak on Friday and said the cases are linked to their C5 unit.

Three of the cases, which the hospital says are linked to each other, were identified on October 21 through the hospital’s regular COVID-19 surveillance. This triggered broader testing, which identified the other two cases on October 22.

An outbreak is declared when two or more patients in a health-care facility – who are being treated for something other than COVID-19 – test positive for the virus.

“At the present time, all patients are asymptomatic while four remain on the unit after one was discharged,” Sunnybrook said.

To limit the spread of the virus, the affected unit is not accepting new patients and has been closed to visitors. The hospital says it has implemented outbreak control measures, including increased surveillance, testing, and enhanced cleaning measures.

“Sunnybrook remains open, and clinics and procedures will continue as usual,” the hospital said.” The hospital is safe for patients and approved visitors/essential care partners.”

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is one of many Toronto health care facilities grappling with an outbreak.

Toronto Western Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, the Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthSt. Michael’s Hospital, Scarborough General Hospital, and Toronto Rehab’s University Centre have all declared outbreaks in their facilities since October 1.

Zoe DemarcoZoe Demarco

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