Covid-19 outbreak identified at Whiteabbey Hospital

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed a coronavirus outbreak has been identified at Whiteabbey Hospital today (Wednesday).
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In a statement issued to the Times, a spokesperson for the Trust said: “We can confirm that we have identified an outbreak of Covid-19 in Ward 9 on the Whiteabbey Hospital site. This ward is a totally self-contained unit which houses stroke and fracture rehabilitation patients.

“The outbreak was confirmed this morning after routine testing which happens prior to admission and discharge. It is also normal procedure when any patient becomes unwell and displays possible symptoms of Covid-19.

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“Staff are also advised to report any symptoms that could be Covid-19 and to avoid coming to work.

Health Minister Robin Swann with Chief Nursing Officer, Charlotte McArdle at a visit to the new Nightingale Hospital in Whiteabbey on Wednesday. A Covid-19 outbreak has been detected at the hospital Picture: Michael CooperHealth Minister Robin Swann with Chief Nursing Officer, Charlotte McArdle at a visit to the new Nightingale Hospital in Whiteabbey on Wednesday. A Covid-19 outbreak has been detected at the hospital Picture: Michael Cooper
Health Minister Robin Swann with Chief Nursing Officer, Charlotte McArdle at a visit to the new Nightingale Hospital in Whiteabbey on Wednesday. A Covid-19 outbreak has been detected at the hospital Picture: Michael Cooper

“The infection control team is currently investigating which is again standard procedure to establish the precise situation.

“Given the current circumstances where there is well documented widespread community transmission, outbreaks will inevitably occur.”

The news comes as Health Minister Robin Swann visited a new Nightingale facility at Whiteabbey Hospital ahead of its opening on Friday.

For more on this story, read here

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