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The investigation is in its early stages but North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit officials are reporting an outbreak in North Bay's Chartwell Barclay House Retirement Residence in which 23 people have tested positive for COVID-19 as of Thursday morning.
The Health Unit confirms the 23 positives are a mixture of residents and staff members. Although exact numbers were not immediately available, it is believed Barclay House residents and staff have an "extremely high vaccination rate," with many having already received third doses.
Although it has not been established, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jim Chirico notes with the elevated provincial rate of cases with a variant of concern, there is a high probability that is the case at Barclay House.
Public Health Physician Dr. Carol Zimbalatti says "the situation is evolving and the outbreak investigation is still underway," adding "there is a possibility more cases could be added in the coming days."
The Health Unit was made aware, Tuesday, Nov. 2 of an individual linked to Barclay House who tested positive.
"Additional infection, prevention, and control measures were put in place immediately," says Zimbalatti. "Case and contact management began and planning for COVID-19 testing was initiated."
Testing was performed relating to the Barclay House outbreak at the assessment centre at North Bay Regional Health Centre, Wednesday.
"Out of an abundance of caution," Zimbalatti continues, "if you have been to Barclay House between October 20 and November 3 and have not been contacted by the Health Unit, please monitor for symptoms of COVID-19. If you feel unwell, isolate immediately and arrange to be tested."
Community spread is a concern, acknowledges Zimbalatti due to the number of individuals who have tested positive. "We are advocating for caution, locally, if anyone has been visiting Barclay House or is in close contact with someone who resides or works there."
The Health Unit continues to work with Barclay House and those who have tested positive to reach all close contacts and control measures are being implemented to control further spread.
Zimbalatti commended the quick response from both Barclay House and the COVID-19 testing centre.
"We will continue to work with the facility and communicate with the public," on the outbreak, Zimbalatti adds.
Chirico says enhanced symptom monitoring and cleaning are underway at the home.
"They are enhancing the use of personal protective equipment and droplet contact precautions," Chirico advises. "There is no communal dining, no group events, and no visitors."
