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Burnaby now has its fourth COVID ‘outbreak’ in the past week

Burnaby now has its fourth confirmed COVID-19 outbreak in the past week after yet another positive test was detected in the city on Saturday.
New Vista, COVID-19
New Vista Care Home director of care Helle Johansen, flanked by clinical manager Kim Sofko, left, and New Vista Society CEO Darin Froese, battled an outbreak at their facility that started April 21. A new positive test was discovered on Aug. 8.

Burnaby now has its fourth confirmed COVID-19 outbreak in the past week after yet another positive test was detected in the city on Saturday.

The latest positive test is a staff member at Burnaby’s New Vista seniors residence, according to an email sent to families of New Vista residents and shared with the NOW.

New Vista saw multiple COVID-19 cases in April involving staff and residents, and one of those residents died.

“I am at New Vista to support staff and ensure compliance with our infection control,” reads the email from Helle Johansen, director of care for New Vista. “We wish it would be otherwise, however we have done this before and we know the drill and with your support and understanding we will get through this again.”

This latest positive case follow three other “outbreaks” – the term used by Fraser Health – at Burnaby care homes. A resident of Burnaby’s George Derby Centre tested positive for COVID-19 late this week, and staff at Burnaby’s Derby Manor and Dania Home have also tested positive in the past week.

Fraser Health rapid response teams have been deployed.

Fraser Health said it has implemented the following:

  • Staffing levels will be maintained to provide resident care.
  • Visitors are restricted throughout the facility.
  • Staff and residents movement in the facility has been restricted.
  • Cleaning and infection control measures have been enhanced.
  • Residents, families and staff are being notified.
  • Twice a day screening of all staff and residents.

“During this time, Fraser Health has additional presence at the site to take any further actions required and support the facility,” said the health authority. “This includes dedicated people to address quality, answer questions from staff, residents and family, and provide active checks of symptoms with staff and residents.”