LAKELAND - COVID-19 outbreaks are still in effect for three area hospitals, with two hospitals now reporting deaths.
To date, 15 individuals associated with the the William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre in Lac La Biche have tested positive for the virus. Three deaths have also been connected to the outbreak, as of Jan. 11.
The outbreak was declared on Dec. 7.
"We offer our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of these individuals at this difficult time," reads an update from Alberta Health Services, dated Jan. 11.
Visitors to the hospital are still being restricted.
When asked about obstetric services at the hospital, Diana Rinne, AHS spokesperson said: "The obstetrics program at William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre in Lac La Biche remains open, and is not impacted by the current outbreak at the hospital. Measures are in place to ensure William J. Cadzow Heathcare Centre remains a safe place for expectant mothers to deliver and for mothers and newborns to receive care."
St. Paul
Over a dozen cases are now connected to the outbreak at the St. Therese-St. Paul Healthcare Centre, according to the Jan. 11 update from AHS.
The outbreak has impacted obstetric services at the hospital. Thirteen individuals connected with the healthcare centre have now tested positive. There are no deaths connected to the outbreak, as of the last update.
"The facility is currently closed to admissions as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak and we are working to ensure all expecting mothers have the support they need, including having a plan in place for where they will safely deliver their babies," Rinne said, in an update she provided last week.
AHS is working with surrounding sites to offer additional support to St. Paul patients, as needed.
"Patient safety is of utmost importance to us and we are doing everything we can to ensure our patients receive the care they need," said Rinne.
The outbreak at the hospital was first declared on Boxing Day.
“Visitors to the hospital are restricted. We encourage families to continue to meet virtually with their loved ones,” reads an update from AHS dated Jan. 11.
Smoky Lake
An outbreak declared at George McDougall – Smoky Lake Healthcare Centre on Dec. 9 has resulted in four deaths, originally reported last week.
To date, 12 individuals associated with the facility have tested positive for the virus, as of Jan. 11.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of these individuals at this difficult time,” reads the update.
