In addition to concerns about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Cowichan District Hospital has been dealing with an outbreak of Clostridium difficile — better known as C. difficile — throughout February.
According to Island Health, a C. difficile outbreak was declared on the west wing of the third floor of the hospital on Feb. 3, and has been contained to that wing. A total of four cases have been attributed to this outbreak, although only one case remained active as of Friday, Feb. 19, and there have been no new cases identified since Feb. 3.
“Island Health’s outbreak response has been focused on diligent use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene and cleaning audits,” the health agency said in a statement to the Citizen. “Housekeeping resources were increased and cleaning of high touch surfaces and focal points in the hospital continues. The CDH team has regular outbreak management meetings, with regional support, to ensure that they continue to monitor and mitigate the situation effectively. Given that there have been no new cases in over two weeks, Island Health is confident the response has been effective and the situation is under control.”
The hospital remains a safe place to seek care, Island Health added. There is no reason to cancel scheduled appointments, and people should attend the emergency room immediately if they are experiencing a medical emergency.