COVID-19 Outbreak at St. Joseph’s General Hospital

COVID-19 Outbreak at St. Joseph’s General Hospital

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Covenant Health is currently investigating an outbreak of COVID-19 at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville.

Karen Diaper, Communications Manager for Covenant Health, said the outbreak was officially declared on December 3.

“Currently there are eight patients who have tested positive for COVID-19. Working with Public Health, we immediately implemented outbreak protocols to ensure the ongoing protection of our patients, staff, and visitors. We have tested all non-COVID-19 patients and are also testing all staff, even if they are not showing symptoms. All potential contacts are being traced to ensure we reduce the possibility of spread.

We continue to work with the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health of Alberta and Alberta Health Services to ensure our hospital is safe and are following protocols to minimize risk of spread.

At this time, the impacted unit is closed to transfers and admissions. Visitors to the affected acute care unit are restricted at this time. All visitation to that unit is suspended at this time, except end-of-life situations or extenuating circumstances.

We encourage families to continue to meet virtually with their loved ones. We continue to provide vital opportunities to connect and update our community; especially important when in-person visitation is restricted. St. Joseph’s General Hospital remains open for emergencies and other services.

We care deeply for our patients and staff. We are doing everything we can to contain transmission and keep patients safe and healthy. Our teams continue to work tirelessly and collaboratively, taking every possible step to respond with compassion to this challenging situation and to ensure a safe environment for care.”