COVID-19 variant outbreak at Foothills Hospital

CALGARY – The COVID-19 Delta variant–also known as B.1.617.2, which was first found in India–is spreading inside Foothills Medical Centre.

Alberta Health Services(AHS) says half of the four units experiencing an outbreak have patients that tested positive for Delta.

According to a statement from AHS, there are a total 16 variant cases at the hospital.

“As with all acute care outbreaks, regardless of the COVID-19 strain, a multi-disciplinary team comprised of Infection Prevention & Control, Medical Officer of Health and Workplace Health & Safety experts are working with the affected units to identify the source of infection and prevent further transmission,” AHS says.

Enhanced sanitary, PPE, and safety precautions are in place now in order to prevent further spread at the hospital, which remains open.

“Admissions to the two affected units are currently on hold as are patient transfers to long-term care centres or other community-based lodging,” AHS says. “Temporarily restricting admissions to the units reduces the patient population on the affected units and allows for greater distancing and less sharing of high-contact spaces such as bathrooms.”

Any patients sent home will be given guidance on isolation and will be followed up with by Public Health. Patients who have no place to isolate will be provided with accommodations in a designated hotel.

Limits on visiting remain in effect on the units.

The Delta variant was first identified in Alberta April 8.