No further cases have been identified following a COVID-19 cluster associated with Cree Ward at Midpark Hospital in Dumfries.
Ten days have now elapsed since the last positive case was identified, with the number of case among patients and staff totalling 13. A state of enhanced daily cleaning has been in place at the inpatient mental health facility, along with extensive testing of patients and staff.
As a result, it is hoped that the ward which provides inpatient support to many elderly patients including some who are receiving end of life care will shortly be in a position to reopen to admissions and visiting.
Very sadly, within the past week an inpatient at Cree Ward has died after having tested positive for COVID-19 within 28 days prior to their death.
A spokesman for Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership said: “This has been an extremely difficult time for patients and families at Midpark, as well as for staff who mounted an extremely professional response to this outbreak as soon as it was identified.
“COVID-19 is very highly infectious, which means that containing its spread is not easy – even when it is being met with all the correct protocols, including regular testing and vaccinations.
“The coronavirus can result in mild symptoms, and sometimes none at all, and this can mask its spread to more vulnerable individuals where it can pose a high degree of risk.
“Following the guidance around use of PPE such as face coverings, around social interactions, good hygiene and vaccination continues to be essential as we work to reduce the risk – but these are not by any means absolute guarantees of protection.
Currently, cases of the coronavirus are still being recorded in high numbers across all four localities in Dumfries and Galloway – Annandale and Eskdale, Nithsdale, Stewartry and Wigtownshire – and with evidence that it is being transmitted within the community.
“It is essential that anyone experiencing any of the following symptoms of COVID immediately self-isolates and arranges to be tested, and that they continue to self-isolate until they obtain a result:
- Raised temperature
- New, continuous cough
Change to or loss of sense of taste and/or smell.
“The symptoms of COVID-19 can be mild, but this does not reduce the level of risk to others from what can be a deadly virus. If in any doubt at all, please immediately self-isolate, arrange to be tested and work with our Test and Protect team to help limit any further spread.
“The responsibility rests with every one of us to do our part to try and limit the spread of coronavirus, and protect ourselves, our loved ones, neighbours, colleagues and communities.”
