The number of people infected with COVID-19 as a result of a Christmas Day outbreak linked to a costume in the Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center’s emergency is approaching 100.
Kaiser said Wednesday that 74 employees working December 25 and 15 “related to December 25” tested positive. An employee working in the emergency room on Dec. 25 has died from COVID-19 complications.
“Out of respect for the privacy of the patient and the family, we have no additional information to provide,” Kaiser said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this terrible loss. We offer support to our employees during this difficult time.”
When the first infections were reported to staff in the hospital’s emergency room, a hospital spokeswoman told the New York Times that an inflatable Christmas tree costume worn briefly by a staff member could worsen the spread of the virus.
Costumes like these work via a fan with battery that draws air into the suit and gives shape. The costume may have scattered drops through the air.
“Any exposure, if it had taken place, would have been completely innocent and accidental, as the individual had no COVID symptoms and was only trying to arouse the spirit of those around them during a very stressful time,” he said. Kaiser San Jose Senior Vice said. President Irene Chavez told the Associated Press in early January.
Kaiser said Wednesday the incident is still under investigation. “Together with our infectious disease specialists, we continue to investigate the outbreak to determine the possible causes and use contact tracing to notify and test anyone exposed, based on CDC and public health guidelines,” he said. Kaiser said. “Given the prevalence of COVID-19 in our communities, it is often difficult to pinpoint the specific exposure that leads to COVID-19 infection.”