Health board issues update on Ysbyty Gwynedd Covid outbreak with 39 patients being treated

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has issued an update on the outbreak of Covid-19 at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

The North Wales health board said 39 patients are currently being cared for after picking up the infection at the Bangor hospital.

It represents a reduction of ten cases compared to when details of the outbreak were first disclosed last week.

Health officials have also said they are confident measures are in place to stop an increase in cases of the virus out in the community.

In a statement, Mandy Jones, Nursing Director at Ysbyty Gwynedd, said: “As of this morning, we are providing care to 39 patients with COVID-19 infection linked to the outbreak at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

“We continue to investigate each case and take appropriate action to prevent the spread of the virus.

“All patients with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 are continuing to be cared for on designated wards and are appropriately isolated.

“We hold daily meetings which involves a senior multidisciplinary team of experts comprising of members of the health board, Public Health Wales and Gwynedd Council who are advising and ensuring that all required control measures are in place to reduce further transmission.

“This includes adequate infection prevention measures and regular testing of staff and patients.

“We are confident that we have the measures in place to ensure that this incident will not pose a significant increasing risk in the incidence rates in our local communities.

“Please help us to reduce the risk of infection by only attending our hospital sites if you have a scheduled appointment.

“Visiting remains restricted, except for limited circumstances. Every visit is risk assessed by the hospital management team or delegated manager.”

Anyone with concerns should contact the health board’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service by telephoning 03000 851234 Monday to Friday between 9am – 5pm or emailing BCU.PALS@wales.nhs.uk