COVID-19 Outbreak declared on the Medical/Surgical Unit

Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022

Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on the 3B Medical/Surgical unit after two inpatients tested positive for COVID-19.

NGH has implemented comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) precautions. Patients are being isolated to their rooms, enhanced cleaning has been implemented, contact tracing is ongoing and patients are being monitored closely for COVID-19 symptoms.
Surveillance testing of all patients and healthcare workers on the affected unit is being completed.

Over the next 48 hours, admissions and transfers to this unit will be on hold until further information becomes available. Some exceptions may be accepted based on case reviews.

Essential Care Providers (ECPs) are no longer permitted to enter the unit, except under exceptional circumstances in consultation with the patient’s care team. NGH’s existing visitor restrictions remain in place.

These temporary measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure the safety of our patients, staff, physicians, and the community.

We understand it is difficult for families and friends to be separated from their loved ones during this period. We encourage people to use technology to connect with our patients.

NGH is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to work in collaboration with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit to bring a safe end to the outbreak as soon as possible.