Horizon declares COVID-19 outbreak on General Surgery unit at Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital

Horizon Health Network (Horizon) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on 4SW (General Surgery) at Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECRH) in Fredericton after a staff and an inpatient tested positive for COVID-19.

On Thursday, Dec. 16, one health care worker on 4SW tested positive. Contact tracing was completed and an inpatient on the same unit was identified.

Horizon has implemented comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) precautions. All patients have been isolated to their rooms, enhanced cleaning has been implemented, contact tracing is ongoing and patients are being monitored closely for COVID-19 symptoms.

Patients and health care workers on affected units are being tested – at this time, no further cases have been identified.

During this time, there will be no patient admissions or transfers to and from this unit.

Surgeries, labour and birth services, ambulatory care and professional services will continue; the public will be notified of any temporary service closures or interruptions. We are asking the public to visit the DECRH Emergency Department only if they have a medical emergency.

Horizon’s Designated Support Person (DSP) program will be temporarily suspended on this unit and Horizon’s existing visitor restrictions remain in place.

These temporary measures are in place to ensure the health and safety of our patients and clients, staff, physicians, and the community.

We understand it is difficult for families and friends to be separated from their loved ones during this period. We encourage people to use technology to connect with our patients.

Our staff are working diligently to provide care and comfort to our patients during these outbreaks.

It is critically important for New Brunswickers to get tested for COVID-19 when they experience any symptoms, even mild ones. If you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19, complete the self-assessment by visiting gnb.ca/coronavirus or calling Tele-Care 811.

– 30 –

For more information contact:

Kris McDavid
Media Relations
Horizon Health Network
1-877-499-1899
Media@HorizonNB.ca
www.HorizonNB.ca