The geriatric unit at the Verdun Hospital in Montreal is hit by an outbreak of COVID-19. Twelve patients and three healthcare workers caught the disease within the walls of the facility. “Almost all” of them are doubly vaccinated, according to the CIUSSS du Center-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, which manages the hospital center.
“Only one infected patient, out of the 10 who are still hospitalized, is in intensive care,” indicates CIUSSS spokesperson Jean-Nicolas Aubé. This is proof that vaccination works. “
The CIUSSS does not know what the cause of the outbreak is. One thing is certain, the “virus has spread like wildfire”, points out Mr. Aubé. The first case was detected on Monday. The next day, eight users were affected, as well as a health worker. Three days later, twelve patients were tested positive.
A total of three employees have been diagnosed with COVID-19. None had to be hospitalized.
In order to contain the outbreak, the management of the Hospital asked all employees to go for a screening test “as soon as possible”. She also reminded them of good practices in terms of infection control and prevention: wearing a mask at all times, frequent hand washing, etc.
The CIUSSS emphasizes that the Verdun Hospital is safe and that patients should not be afraid to go there for treatment.
The last outbreak at the Verdun Hospital dates back to September 17. Four people were then infected.
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