GUELPH – Two health care workers at Guelph General Hospital (GGH) have tested positive for COVID-19.
On March 24 hospital officials announced one employee was at home when symptoms developed, while the other stopped working as soon as they felt ill.
Both are now self-isolating at home.
“Keeping staff and patients safe is our top priority,” stated Marianne Walker, hospital president and CEO.
“Unfortunately, COVID-19 is now in the wider community and everyone, including our staff, need to be extremely vigilant and follow public health’s directions.”
The two GGH cases, bring the total positive coronavirus cases in the region to five.
On March 24 Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) announced a man in his 80s living at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Guelph tested positive and is in stable condition.
Two days earlier, on March 22, public health announced the first positive case in Wellington County. A 66-year-old man tested positive for the virus and is recovering at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest.
The first case in the region was announced on March 16 by public health. A man in his 40s tested positive for COVID-19 after returning from Atlanta, Georgia. He was tested at Headwaters Health Care Centre in Orangeville.
GGH officials say the hospital has made “many changes over the past months … to help protect both staff and patients,” including increased cleaning, restricted visits, screening at a controlled entrance and cancellation of all elective surgeries and procedures.
Hospital staff members have also been self-screening before every shift.
“Even with this new development our message to our staff is the same as it is to the community we serve,” explained Walker.
“Wash your hands often. Practice social distancing. Self-monitor for symptoms such as a fever, new cough or shortness of breath. If you are sick, stay home and self-isolate. We are thankful our staff are following this protocol.”
“This is a difficult and challenging time for everyone. The commitment and professionalism of our staff continues to humble me. And, we so appreciate all the support we’re receiving from our community.”
For the latest health information regarding COVID-19, visit the public health website.
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