GRH COVID-19 update; outbreak declared on 5N

In consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, Grand River Hospital has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on 5North with two patients and two staff members affected. The hospital is also still monitoring an active outbreak on 5South. Outbreaks on the 5^th floor (including an outbreak on 5Centre, declared over on December 14^th) have impacted 11 patients and 17 staff members to date, including fewer than 5 patient deaths.

In outbreak situations, the hospital immediately implements the following enhanced protocols:

• Increased surveillance to identify potential cases and follow-up investigations;
• More frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces;
• Cohorting staff as much as possible;
• Education of patients and families about COVID-19 hospital protocols;
• Continually reviewing our practices and implementing new measures as required, as part of our ongoing risk assessments;
• Temporarily closing admissions to the unit;
• Temporarily suspending in person care partner visits to the unit and working to enhance virtual and phone connections for our patients and families.