Effective today (December 22), Niagara Health will provide temporary management support through a voluntary contract with Oakwood Park Lodge, a long-term home in Niagara Falls that is in a home-wide outbreak of COVID-19.
The outbreak was declared on December 12, 2020. A total of 97 residents have tested positive for COVID-19. Sadly, eight residents who tested positive have passed away. In addition, 91 staff have tested positive as part of surveillance testing.
“Our hospital team is taking immediate action to contain the virus and protect residents and staff. Their health and wellbeing is our most important priority,” says Niagara Health President Lynn Guerriero. “I’d like to thank Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre for its assistance with assessing the outbreak situation at Oakwood Park Lodge. Going forward, we’ll be working closely with the team at the home to ensure the continuity of care for residents is maintained and leaders and staff are supported to provide safe care.”
“We look forward to working with the Niagara Health team to bring a safe resolution to this outbreak.” says Stephen Moran, Administrator, Oakwood Park Lodge. “We are grateful for their support and additional resources, and trust this partnership will ensure our residents receive the best care possible.”
Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Acting Medical Officer of Health at Niagara Region Public Health, issued an order earlier today pursuant to Section 29.2 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act due to concerns with the outbreak. Niagara Health is awaiting confirmation of next steps from the Ministry of Long-Term Care.
Our outbreak management work will include health assessments of all residents, stabilization of leadership and staffing, staff education on best practices related to personal protective equipment and infection prevention and control, enhanced cleaning, and supply management, among other necessary measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 and safely end the outbreak.
In-person visiting restrictions are in place at Oakwood Park Lodge. Only essential caregivers are permitted at this time.
Oakwood Park Lodge is a 153-bed home owned by Conmed Health Care Group.
