How the fatal COVID-19 outbreak at Cambridge Country Manor is being managed

Nine people who tested positive for COVID-19 have died at Cambridge Country Manor, a nursing home grappling with an outbreak that's nearing containment, according to a top hospital official. 

As of Wednesday, 60 people who live in the home and 54 staff had tested positive since the outbreak was declared earlier this month.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families. It's a really difficult time for everyone, and we truly all saddened by the deaths," said Patrick Gaskin, president and CEO of Cambridge Memorial Hospital.

The hospital entered into a voluntary management agreement with the nursing home last Friday to provide oversight and support to deal with the outbreak.  

Gaskin said management hosted a teleconference with impacted families last weekend and continue to have regular touchpoints about the situation.

Family members can also see loved ones through virtual or window visits outside the home.

"Family members can see and connect with their loved ones without having to go into the facility," said Gaskin.

Outbreak control

Gaskin said spread is not yet contained, but officials are hopeful it will be soon.

"We're not fully [contained] but we're nearing that," he said. "We are in a very good position and stronger position than we were a week ago … Everyday we move forward."

About 10 people who live in the home have been moved to hospital to help minimize spread.

"That created an opportunity for us to have some space in the building … to cohort patients and create COVID positive areas and COVID negative areas," said Gaskin.

The hospital has also re-deployed dozens of staff including physicians, personal support workers, housekeeping staff, an infection control practitioner and a member of the spiritual care team.

Two trailers have been set up on the grounds for administration services.

The nursing home is currently undergoing a deep clean.