The Kaiser Permanent San Jose Medical Center is investigating an outbreak of the coronavirus in its emergency department that has infected at least 43 staff members.
Hospital officials are investigating whether the outbreak was affected by a staff member who briefly appeared in the emergency department on Christmas Day, wearing a holiday-themed holiday-themed costume. The 43 staff members tested positive for the virus between 27 December and 1 January.
“Any exposure, if it had taken place, would have been completely innocent and quite accidental, as the individual had no COVID symptoms and was only trying to lift the minds of those around them during a very stressful time,” said Irene Chavez, senior vice president and area manager of the Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, in a statement.
“If it’s anything, it should be a very important reminder that the virus is widespread, and often asymptomatic, and that we should all be vigilant,” Chavez said.
“It’s clear we will not allow more air – driven costumes at our facilities,” Chavez said. “At the same time, we are taking steps to strengthen safety measures among staff, including physical distance and no gathering during breaks, sharing food or drink and masks at all times.”
Chavez said hospital staff are notified and patients exposed and tested to test all workers and doctors of the emergency department. Workers who confirmed or suspected of contracting the virus will be asked to stay home.
The emergency department is deeply cleaned.
“All of our health workers are tested weekly for COVID-19 and expedited for anyone with symptoms or exposure to a person with COVID-19,” Chavez said.