COVID-19 in Waterloo Region
The safety of our patients, families, staff and volunteers is always our priority. Planning for COVID-19 has been underway at the hospital for several months.
For questions or concerns, or up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Waterloo Region please contact the Region of Waterloo Public Health: 519-575-4400 or visit their website (will open in new window).
How Grand River Hospital is preparing for COVID-19
Our infection prevention and control protocols are in place at all times. We are closely monitoring COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) and are confident in our staff and the plan we have developed.
Staff at the hospital are currently screening all who enter the hospital for symptoms. Anyone who is coming to the hospital is asked to sanitize their hands and wear a mask. Visitors have been restricted to only those who have been approved for exceptional circumstances only. We are taking these precautions and working with our partners like Waterloo Region Public Health to ensure a safe environment for all.
Is there any impact on services at Grand River Hospital?
Yes, some clinics have been reduced and elective surgeries cancelled. If you have an upcoming appointment at the hospital, please contact your care team before coming to ensure that your care will proceed as planned. For more information, please visit our clinic and service changes page.
Where can I get more information on confirmed COVID-19 cases in Waterloo Region?
The Region of Waterloo Public Health is now reporting all new cases on their website Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. You can access this information at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/confirmedCOVID19.
What you should do to avoid the spread of illness
- Wash your hands often. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Cough and sneeze etiquette: cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs. If you use a tissue, throw it away as soon as possible and wash your hands.
- Limit contact with others - practice physical distancing.
- If you are unwell, unless you need to see a health care professional.
What is COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
This is a flu-like illness. Symptoms include:
- Fever and/or cough;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Pneumonia
Most people will recover from the common COVID-19 on their own.
How are GRH staff screening potential cases?
If you are sick and need to come to Grand River Hospital for an appointment or test, please call ahead to let us know. If people arrive with:
- Fever and/or cough;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Pneumonia.
And are coming for care, this information enables your care team to wear the appropriate protective equipment to manage your care, safely. If you are visiting under exceptional circumstances and have any symptoms, you will not be permitted to enter the buildings for the safety of all.
For more information, you can access or contact:
Public Health Agency of Canada: 1-833-784-4397
Waterloo Region Public Health has information about prevention and travelling.
Ministry of Health: 1-866-797-0000
Canadians travelling abroad are encouraged to consult the Travel Health Notice for China on travel.gc.ca.