Island Health has linked two more cases of COVID-19 to an ongoing outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
In a release Tuesday, Island Health said the two new cases were discovered after a second round of testing at the hospital.
To date, nine patients and five staff members have tested positive for the virus at the hospital. One person has also died of the virus over the weekend.
Whether they were a patient or staff member at the hospital is not being divulged by Island Health out of respect for their privacy.
“To the family and friends of this individual, please know that the entire Island Health family grieves with you during this incredibly difficult time,” said Island Health President and CEO, Kathy MacNeil in an emailed statement.
“For the Island Health team members who provided compassionate care and support, you are in my thoughts and I am grateful for your efforts.”
“Testing continues to confirm that the outbreak at SPH is limited to acute care areas. Patients in acute care areas continue to be closely monitored for symptoms.”
Staff members who had direct contact with patients who tested positive for COVID-19 are also being tested regularly and are being limited to the acute care and long-term care area of the hospital.
In a statement released late Friday, Island Health announced they are temporarily moving the SPH laboratory service outpatient collections to their Keating Cross Road lab, located at 2140A Keating Cross Road.
According to the health authority, the outbreak is limited to acute care areas, and the emergency department remains open.
As of this publication, there are 207 active COVID-19 cases in the Vancouver Island Health region.
