The health and safety of Osler’s patients, staff, physicians, volunteers and the community is a top priority. As Osler continues to see community spread of COVID-19, the hospital is prepared. Osler remains vigilant and is actively working to respond to additional cases.
Outbreak on 8th Level Surgery at Etobicoke General Hospital
On January 12, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Toronto Public Health declared an outbreak on 8th Level Surgery at Etobicoke General Hospital. As per Toronto Public Health, 8th Level Surgery will remain open to new patient admissions and transfers who have tested negative for COVID-19.
Outbreak on Rehab A at Brampton Civic Hospital
On January 10, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Peel Public Health declared an outbreak on Rehab A at Brampton Civic Hospital. As per Peel Public Health, Rehab A will remain open to new patient admissions and transfers who have a negative result COVID-19 PCR test.
Outbreak on Cardiology Unit at Brampton Civic Hospital
On January 9, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Peel Public Health declared an outbreak on Cardiology at Brampton Civic Hospital. As per Peel Public Health, Cardiology will remain open to new patient admissions and transfers who have tested negative for COVID-19.
Outbreak on 9 East at Etobicoke General Hospital
On January 8, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Toronto Public Health declared an outbreak on 9 East at Etobicoke General Hospital. As per Toronto Public Health, 9 East will remain open to new patient admissions and transfers who have tested negative for COVID-19.
Outbreak on Neurology Unit at Brampton Civic Hospital
On January 7, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Peel Public Health declared an outbreak on Neurology at Brampton Civic Hospital. As per Peel Public Health, Neurology will remain open to new patient admissions and transfers that have tested negative for COVID-19.
Outbreak on 7 East at Etobicoke General Hospital
On January 6, Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control department and Toronto Public Health declared an outbreak on the 7th Level East at Etobicoke General. The unit will remain open to new admissions and transfers.
When is an outbreak declared?
Outbreaks are declared, based on guidance set out by the Province, when Osler’s Infection Prevention and Control 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, at least one of which is a laboratory confirmed COVID-19 case.
What measures are taken when a COVID-19 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 for COVID-19, 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 pandemic plan, the following are in place at all Osler hospitals:
- Screening of everyone entering the hospital
- 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 & Safety immediately if symptoms develop at any time.
