COVID-19 outbreak declared in Copper Ridge Place

Thursday, 2 September 2021 09:33

By Dylan MacNeil

“We are fortunate to have been spared an outbreak in long term care until now," says Yukon's acting Chief Medical Officer of Health.

The Yukon’s acting Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Catherine Elliott has declared a COVID-19 outbreak in the Copper Ridge Place long-term care home after a positive diagnosis in a staff member.

The infection is linked to the case of a resident who was transferred from the Whitehorse General Hospital, announced Monday.

According to a press release, “the staff member is currently isolating and contact tracing is under way. Although the current situation is contained, because the case occurred within the facility itself, it prompts the outbreak declaration. Routine procedures for outbreak management in long-term care are being followed including screening and testing protocols.”

“Visitor access to the affected unit is restricted for the next 28 days but virtual visits are being organized.”

“We are fortunate to have been spared an outbreak in long term care until now. With the current measures in place and investigation well underway, we are in a good position at this time. Vaccination remains our strongest tool against COVID-19,” reads a statement by Dr. Elliott.

Vaccination status of those infected is not mentioned in the news release, but it does say 95 percent of residents have had their shots.

The Yukon’s active infection count is now at 24, that’s up from the 21 previously reported.

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