Outbreak

The health and safety of Osler’s patients, staff, physicians, volunteers and the community is a top priority. Osler remains vigilant and is actively working to respond to any outbreak cases.

When is an outbreak declared?

Outbreaks are declared, based on guidance set out by the Province, when Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) and Occupational Health and Safety teams and Public Health discover two or more individuals who test positive for acute respiratory illness with any common link within a 48 hour timeframe.

8E Medical Surgical Unit at Etobicoke General Hospital

On September 2, Osler’s IPAC department and Toronto Public Health declared a COVID-19 outbreak on 8E Medical Surgical Unit at Etobicoke General Hospital. The unit is closed to new admissions in consultation with IPAC.

What measures are taken when an outbreak occurs?

Osler is taking extra precautions to protect patients and health care workers. These measures include:

• Notifying patients and using the appropriate precautions to prevent transmission of the virus.
• Testing and monitoring staff, physicians and patients, as appropriate.
• Limiting staff members who normally work on multiple units to work on one unit only.
• Enhancing cleaning of patient care equipment and the hospital units.

Is the hospital still safe during an outbreak?

Yes. Our hospitals remain open and safe places to receive care. As part of Osler’s health and safety plan, the following are in place at all Osler hospitals:

• Visitor restrictions
• Increased education for staff about the use of personal protective equipment and proper hand hygiene
• Physical distancing

All Osler staff and physicians are advised to monitor and report symptoms to Osler’s Occupational Health and Safety immediately if symptoms develop at any time. To our visitors, to keep everyone healthy and safe, please do not visit patients if sick or unwell. Masking is required in all patient-facing areas and continues to be encouraged in all other public areas across our sites.