Second COVID-19 cluster at Craigavon Hospital with five patients testing positive

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust confirmed the second cluster was identified on the Haematology ward.

It follows news that 20 members of staff at the hospital are self isolating after three colleagues tested positive for Covid-19.

The Trust said twelve patients on the Haematology ward have been tested, five of these patients tested positive and one further haematology in-patient identified.

A spokesperson said: “The ward is currently closed to admission.

“Trust staff are working closely with the Public Health Agency to manage the situation and the safety of both patients and staff remains a priority.

“There will be no routine visiting to the ward until further notice unless in exceptional circumstances.

“Virtual visiting by telephone or tablet device is available on request by contacting 077 7651 6419 between 9am and 5pm.”

Earlier the Southern Trust confirmed that the three staff members work at the Respiratory Emergency Department.

One member of staff has tested positive and three close staff contacts are self-isolating as a precaution.

A spokesperson for the Trust said; “Covid-19 is rising again in our community. We urgently appeal to everyone to wash their hands, cover their face maintain social distancing.”

DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley MLA has extended his thoughts to those affected by the second cluster of COVID-19 reported in Craigavon Area Hospital.

The Upper Bann MLA said: “I am aware that a second cluster of coronavirus has been identified within the Haematology ward at Craigavon Area Hospital, in which one member of staff and five patients have tested positive.

“Consequently, the ward has now been closed for admission while the Trust work hand-in-hand with the Public Health Agency to manage the situation, prioritising the safety of staff and patients.

“I am continuing to liaise with the Southern Health Trust as this situation develops, and I would like to extend my thoughts to all those that have been affected.”

https://www.portadowntimes.co.uk/health/coronavirus/staff-ni-hospital-emergency-department-self-isolating-after-rise-covid-19-2951457

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