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- Title
Learnings from a rapid spread of COVID-19 in a suburban Canadian hospital.
- Authors
Nwaokenye, Jude; Chan, Justin M.; Xuetao Wang; Short, Katy; Masud, Shazia; Russell, Shannon L.; Zlosnik, James; Prystajecky, Natalie; Shaw, Robert; Cheng, Calvin
- Abstract
Background: This study describes a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak which was declared in a community hospital, and discusses the lessons learned that could inform future outbreak prevention and control efforts. Methods: The outbreak took place from September 16, 2020 to October 26, 2020 when COVID-19 incidence in the community was low and the COVID-19 vaccine was not yet available. Epidemiological data, patient clinical information, and whole genome sequencing were utilized for the outbreak investigation and analysis. Results: The index case was a patient whose positive status was unknown to staff and whose symptoms on admission did not fit the screening criteria at the time. A total of 19 patients were linked to the outbreak during the study period, with an attack rate of 29%. All-cause mortality for patient cases was 37%. Whole genome sequencing confirmed genetic relatedness of all patient cases. Conclusion: Vigilance for atypical clinical presentation, strategic patient cohorting, and minimizing movement of positive and exposed patients may help limit transmission. Whole genome sequencing can supplement epidemiological data to inform outbreak investigations.
- Subjects
CANADA; PREVENTION of epidemics; LENGTH of stay in hospitals; COVID-19; SCIENTIFIC observation; SEQUENCE analysis; CROSS-sectional method; SUBURBS; COMMUNITY health services; PUBLIC health; INFECTION control; TREATMENT effectiveness; INFECTIOUS disease transmission; COLLECTION &; preservation of biological specimens; COVID-19 testing
- Publication
Canadian Journal of Infection Control / Revue Canadienne de Prévention des Infections, 2023, Vol 38, Issue 2, p76
- ISSN
1183-5702
- Publication type
Article