Burnaby Hospital has been hit with a third COVID-19 outbreak in the past month.
Fraser Health says the outbreak was declared on May 11 after evidence of transmission in a medicine unit.
A spokesperson told the NOW that seven patients have tested positive for the virus.
The unit remains open only to those who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 60 days.
"Upon declaring the outbreak, Fraser Health immediately implemented precautions at the site, including enhanced cleaning to protect the health of all staff, medical staff, and patients," a statement read.
"The emergency department at Burnaby Hospital remains open. Fraser Health has notified all patients on the affected unit about the outbreak and, in addition, families of patients who are unable to share this information have been informed."
When is a COVID-19 outbreak declared at a hospital?
Determination and declaration of an outbreak is made by the medical health officer or their official designate, according to the Fraser Health website.
"An outbreak may be declared when at least one staff or patient/resident diagnosed is with COVID-19; AND an investigation indicates transmission most likely occurred in the facility, from another patient/resident, visitor or staff, rather than prior to admission (for patients/residents) or from the community [for staff]," Fraser Health’s site notes.
More information about COVID-19 outbreaks in health-care facilities is available at the Fraser Health outbreaks page.
- with files from Julie MacLellan, New West Record
