COVID-19 outbreak declared at Palmerston hospital

PALMERSTON – Officials have declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Palmerston and District Hospital (PDH), with four inpatients and one staff member testing positive for the virus.

"The hospital is working with Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) to respond to the outbreak, including staff/patient COVID testing and enhanced cleaning," states a Jan. 28 press release from the hospital.

PDH is not allowing inpatient visitors, "apart from very limited, special circumstances," and obstetrical services will be temporarily redirected as a result of the outbreak.

Obstetrics patients should "check with their physician to determine the best care plan."

This is the first COVID-19 outbreak at a hospital within Wellington County.

The hospital's emergency department, diagnostic imaging, ambulatory care and day surgery (not requiring hospital admission) services remain open.

However, patients should call ahead to confirm appointments, as plans could change.

“Staff and physicians at PDH have been working around the clock to care for all of patients,” stated Stephen Street, president and CEO of North Wellington Health Care.

“To say they are remarkable does not begin to cover the outstanding care, compassion and work they are providing to our community residents.”