February 22, 2021 - 836 views
Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board has issued an important statement this evening as a Coronavirus outbreak has effected a number of wards at Ysbyty Gwynedd.
We are currently managing a COVID-19 outbreak at Ysbyty Gwynedd that is affecting five adult wards.
As of this morning, we are caring for 75 patients with COVID-19 infection, of which, 49 are linked with the outbreak.
A programme of staff and patient testing is underway. All patients who have tested positive are being appropriately isolated, in line with Public Health Wales’ policy on infection prevention and control measures.
As we continue with a programme of additional testing, we expect to find more cases in patients and staff who are not currently symptomatic. This approach will help us build an accurate picture of the current situation, enabling us to safely manage patients and prevent any unknown potential transmission.
The virus is still circulating in our communities, and with the new variants that are more transmissible, more patients with COVID-19 have been admitted into our hospitals than at any other time during the pandemic.
A significant risk is that a patient can test negative for COVID-19 while the virus is in its incubation period, and then test positive after being admitted to hospital. All hospitals face the challenge of balancing the risk of infection while providing care for those who need it.
Please help us to reduce the risk of infection by only attending our hospital sites if it is absolutely necessary. Visiting remains restricted, except for limited circumstances, but people should continue to attend appointments unless they are told otherwise.
Dr Karen Mottart, Medical Director at Ysbyty Gwynedd.
