The Alfred: COVID-19 cases (updated)

Alfred Health chief executive Prof Andrew Way said stringent infection control measures remain in place on the ward, which has been closed to new admissions since last week.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of our patient, who passed away yesterday,” Prof Way said.

“Our Infectious Diseases and Infection Prevention teams have supported us to put the most stringent plan into place, and we remain completely focused on the wellbeing of our patients and staff as this pandemic unfolds.”

The hospital this week introduced further restrictions on visitors.  Temperature screening of all visitors is also now in place, and visiting hours have been reduced to a four-hour window each day – one visitor per patient for a maximum of one hour.

------

27 March 2020

Access to The Alfred’s haematology and oncology ward has been limited after four inpatients tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).  

A full investigation, including contact tracing, is being undertaken to identify the source of transmission, which is still unknown.

Those who had contact with the patients have been notified and have isolated in line with current health advice and guidelines.

Two patients remain in hospital, and two have died.

Three ward staff have since tested positive for COVID-19, with others in self-isolation.

Alfred Health chief executive Prof Andrew Way said the situation is distressing for the staff, patients and families involved, and a full investigation is underway.

“It is important that we complete the contact tracing to truly understand what has happened, and I appreciate how upsetting this is for everyone involved,” Prof Way said.

“This situation highlights how devastating the virus can be for vulnerable patients. I urge the community to follow health advice and to self-isolate if they’re unwell. We need to act now to protect those at risk in our community.”