Lake of the Woods District Hospital activated its pandemic plan in response to two hospital patients testing positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. The outbreak expanded to 10 patients by Sunday.
Immediate visitor restrictions have been implemented until further notice. Limited exceptions may apply to end of life patients, as well as other extenuating circumstances. Any exceptions will be determined by the unit manager or delegate.
The outbreak has also closed non-essential/ elective outpatient services for 14 days, effective immediately. Essential services, such as Chemotherapy and dialysis will continue. Morningstar Centre and the Community Mental health and Addictions programs will also continue, because they are physically separated from the hospital.
The hospital is working with the Northwestern Health Unit to determine the source of the outbreak and has created an isolated COVID-19 ward to mitigate further spread. Significant staff testing is occurring on-site as well as through the COVID-19 Assessment Centre.
Extensive contact tracing is also underway.
