Covid-19 outbreak at Whiteabbey Hospital - days before Nightingale unit opens

by Q Radio News

A outbreak of Covid-19 at Whiteabbey Hospital has been confirmed by the Northern Trust.

It has occurred in Ward 9 of the hospital which the Trust says is a 'self-contained' unit which houses stroke and fracture rehabilitation patients.

The outbreak was confirmed following routine testing which happens prior to the admission and discharge of patients.

The hospital in Newtownabbey has been set up as Northern Ireland's second Nightingale hospital with the specialised unit set to open on Friday.

It will focus on helping patients who are recovering from Covid-19.

Health Minister Robin Swann visited the site on Wednesday ahead of the opening.

A spokesperson for the Northern Trust said: “Staff are also advised to report any symptoms that could be COVID-19 and to avoid coming to work.

“The infection control team is currently investigating which is again standard procedure to establish the precise situation.

“Given the current circumstances where there is well documented widespread community transmission, outbreaks will inevitably occur.”