Arnprior hospital inpatient unit declares COVID-19 outbreak

ARNPRIOR – Staff of the Arnprior hospital have declared a COVID-19 outbreak Monday, Feb. 1.

“Yesterday (Feb. 1), under the guidance of Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU), a COVID-19 outbreak was declared on Arnprior Regional Health’s (ARH) Inpatient Unit,” ARH communications manager Melissa McDermott released in statement today (Feb. 2). “There is currently confirmation of one positive staff case and eight patient cases associated with the outbreak and no other confirmed cases at this time.”

Due to the outbreak, visitor access to the inpatient unit has paused except for visitors of end-of-life patients.

“In partnership with RCDHU, the ARH’s  Infection Prevention and Control and Occupational Health and Safety teams have implemented the necessary outbreak protocols to protect the health and safety of patients and staff,” McDermott said.

This includes:

• Contact tracing and testing
• Isolation protocols
• Enhanced cleaning of high-touch areas
• Increased PPE measures for staff

“The outbreak has not impacted patient access to the emergency department, diagnostic imaging or outpatient clinics,” McDermott said.

During the temporary pause to visitor access, family and friends can stay connected with patients on the inpatient unit through video chats (please arrange with the team) and telephone calls.