The Grey Bruce Health Unit says five long term care homes used outbreak protocols until five positive coronavirus test results were ruled false-positive following more tests.
Nearly 3000 tests were conducted in staff and residents of long-term care homes across Grey-Bruce with no symptoms.
Three residents and two staff who were asymptomatic tested positive at Sepoy Manor in Lucknow, Golden Dawn Long-Term Care Home in Lion's Head, Parkview Manor in Chesley, Grey Gables in Markdale and Georgian Heights in Owen Sound, but further tests ruled out COVID-19.
Medical officer of health Dr. Ian Arra says the initiative successfully demonstrated both strong testing capability and capacity, when needed, and commends the quick response and diligent efforts by all homes that have seen false positives.
The homes have to enter into outbreak protocols while samples and patients are retested.
If the initial positive test result is in question, the original sample is re-tested along with two further samples. If most come back negative, a false positive is declared. This process can take from 1-10 days due to the various different labs potentially working on the test.
The impact of a false positive can be substantial when associated with long-term care and retirement homes. Upon being notified of the positive result, the facility will enter into outbreak protocols. Staff, residents, and families are notified creating a source of anxiety for all concerned. Significant equipment, resources, and effort are spent on everyone’s safety and well being.
The initiative of mass testing of asymptomatic does not change the management of outbreaks in long-term care and retirement homes. As soon as a case is identified, all outbreak management protocols are immediately implemented regardless of the number of cases.
There have been no new cases reported in Grey, Bruce, Huron, Perth, or Wellington Counties today.