Outbreak at a Congregate Living Setting

Tuesday, 3 November 2020 at 11:08

UPDATE: Southwestern Public Health says 40 farm workers at an on-farm congregate living setting have tested positive for COVID-19.

UPDATE: Southwestern Public Health has released a new update regarding the outbreak at a congregate living setting in Bayham.

Here is the official statement from the health unit:

Southwestern Public Health confirms there are now 40 farm workers from the Municipality of Bayham with COVID-19. All affected individuals reside in an on-farm congregate living setting. Three test results remain outstanding of the total 157 swabs.

Currently, one worker is undergoing treatment at a local hospital. The rest are in self-isolation and receiving support from their employer, Southwestern Public Health, and appropriate community services. An on-farm inspection has taken place and public health officials are working with the farm operator to ensure all appropriate measure are in place to contain the spread of the virus and prevent future outbreak events.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Southwestern Public Health is investigating an outbreak of COVID-19 at a congregate living setting in Bayham after at least 31 people tested positive for the virus.

One person was taken to the hospital on October 30th for COVID-19 related symptoms on October 30th, tested positive and remains at the hospital.

The Health Unit has requested testing for everyone living at the address and all of their close contacts. This is a total of 157 tests. Local Medical Officer of Health Dr. Joyce Lock says they are waiting for additional lab results to determine if more cases are connected to this outbreak.

"We are still investigating and will share more details when they are available. Everyone is reminded to keep practicing physical distancing, handwashing, wearing a face covering, and stay home when feeling unwell, to help stop further spread in our communities."

As of November 2, Southwestern Public Health has 29 active cases in its region. Not all of these congregate living cases have been added to the COVID-19 dashboard yet. The majority of the region’s active cases are connected to known positive cases already reported, with only one case admitted to hospital.