Staff member at DH’s Yaumatei Maternal and Child Health Centre tested preliminarily positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus

     The Department of Health (DH) today (February 9) said that an outsourced staff member who works at its Yaumatei Maternal and Child Health Centre (MCHC) has tested preliminarily positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

     The staff member concerned is responsible for cleaning duties at the MCHC. She last performed duties on February 7. The building where she resides was included in a compulsory testing notice. Her sample collected on February 7 preliminarily tested positive. She was asymptomatic.
 
     She wore appropriate personal protective equipment while performing duties and properly maintained social distancing with people she had contact with. The Centre for Health Protection's epidemiological investigation is ongoing. The MCHC is closed today for thorough cleaning and disinfection. Affected clients have been contacted to reschedule their service appointments. The MCHC will open as usual tomorrow (February 10).​

     In view of the current epidemic situation, MCHCs have stepped up infection control measures, including temperature screening before clinic entry and limiting the number of accompanying carers. At present, all MCHC staff members are wearing masks at work and practising hand hygiene at all times. The DH is highly concerned about the COVID-19 situation and has reminded all staff again to maintain personal hygiene and remain vigilant at all times. If feeling unwell, they should seek medical attention immediately.