Health Authority Announces Wave of Confirmed and Suspected COVID-19 Outbreaks in Regina Care Homes

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Saskatchewan health officials have announced a wave of newly confirmed and suspected COVID-19 care home outbreaks in Regina.

On Monday, the Sask. Health Authority said many cases of COVID-19 were found at 7 nursing homes in Regina.

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Outbreaks were declared at Parkside Extendicare, Regina Lutheran Home, Pioneer Village and a few units at Wascana Lutheran Home, whereas an outbreak is just still suspected at Extendicare’s Sunset and Elmview homes and Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home.

For an outbreak to be declared, 2 positive COVID-19 cases must be reported.

Health officials hosting a press conference Monday afternoon said did they not have stats on hand, including the total number of positive cases and hospitalizations between the seven homes. However, they promise to give more information soon.

Infections are being seen in vaccinated and unvaccinated residents and staff. Most of those infected at the 7 nursing homes have not been displaying symptoms and have not needed hospitalization, as per the SHA.

“There is no one clear incident that has been identified, a catalyst, for the new cases,” said Dr. Rashaad Hansia, the SHA’s physician executive for integrated urban health.

The media previously reported the new outbreak at Parkside, where one fully vaccinated resident and an unspecified number of staff have tested positive for coronavirus.

Testing at the homes is ongoing for both residents and staff, though Hansia said there is nothing requiring workers to be either tested for COVID or vaccinated against it.

“But it is something we strongly encourage,” he said.

Vaccination rates for residents at most of the 7 homes are over 90%, he added.

HEPA fan filters have been brought in to enhance air circulation in the homes “out of an abundance of caution,” Hansia said. All workers are required to wear N-95 respirators at all times.