THUNDER BAY – A COVID-19 outbreak that claimed the lives of 23 residents of a Thunder Bay long-term care home has been declared over.
The announcement from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit came more than 11 weeks after the outbreak was first declared on Nov. 17, after a single staff member tested positive. Well over 100 residents and staff wound up infected at the 157-bed facility.
There had been no active cases associated with the home for several days before Saturday's announcement.
The home will continue to implement heightened health precautions, the health unit stated.
“Measures remain in place at Southbridge Roseview to reduce likelihood of transmission of the virus within the facility, including expanded precautions that were implemented during the outbreak,” it said.
The facility’s private owner, Southbridge Care Homes, has come under fire for its handling of the outbreak. A report from Ontario’s Ministry of Long-Term care found numerous violations, and concluded an inadequate early response likely worsened the spread of the virus.
Another violation allowed a personal support worker to report to work twice at the home after testing positive.
“[The health unit] recognizes the significant impact this outbreak had on Roseview residents, their families, and the staff, and offers condolences to those who lost a loved one due to COVID-19,” the agency offered in its statement Saturday.
“TBDHU further recognizes the hard work and dedication of the Roseview health care workers, staff, and essential care providers throughout this challenging time.”
