COVID-19 outbreak at Vernon long-term care home

A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at the Heron Grove long term care facility in Vernon.

The outbreak, identified Monday, Jan. 16, affects the Cottage 6 unit at the facility on 20th Street.

Interior Health has confirmed nine people are affected by the outbreak, though they did not say if they were all residents or if any staff were infected.

The health authority also said no individuals have been hospitalized due to an infection as of time of publication.

As with other respiratory illnesses, signs will be posted at the entrance of the building, new admissions and visitations will be halted and activities and outings for the affected unit may be cancelled.

Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures will be in place, staff will be using more personal protective equipment, and non-urgent medical appointments will be rescheduled.