COVID-19 outbreak on 8ABC, part of the medicine program, declared over

Grand River Hospital and the Region of Waterloo Public Health have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 8ABC, part of the medicine program, over.

Thanks to all who worked diligently to bring this outbreak to an end.

As a reminder to all, in outbreak situations, we immediately implement 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 suspending in person care partner visits to the unit and working to enhance virtual and phone connections for our patients and families.