Interior Health says it has identified an additional 40 COVID-19 cases and one death linked to the outbreak on surgical unit 6 South at Royal Inland Hospital, taking the total to 48 cases.

As of this morning, there were 20 patients and 28 staff members who tested positive for COVID-19, with Interior Health saying an elderly patient died over the weekend.

In a statement, it notes the outbreak has not yet spread outside of 6 South.

“Patients are isolated on the COVID unit and on 6 South,” a statement from IHA said. “Those who were able to be discharged are isolating at home. 6 South is closed to admissions.”

“All precautions are in place to stop further transmission. All staff members who have tested positive are isolating at home.”

Surgeries are still continuing at this time with Interior Health noting patients admitted to the hospital after their surgeries will be cared for on a different floor.

“We remind the public that the hospital is safe to attend for appointments or emergency care. COVID-19 self-isolation is not required after visiting the hospital,” added the statement.

A team of infection control and communicable disease specialists, as well as RIH clinical staff and leaders are meeting daily to review the outbreak and to ensure measures to prevent transmission are being taken – with regular updates on this outbreak to be released by the health authority.

“I understand he public will be anxious about the news of this outbreak at their hospital. It is important, however, that people remain calm and know that a highly skilled team is working to quickly contain this outbreak,” said Kamloops Medical Health Officer, Dr. Carol Fenton.

“Please help us support staff and patients by following all public health precautions as you go about your daily activities.”

People are being urged to avoid socializing with those outside their household bubbles and to follow public health guidance like physical distancing, washing your hands regularly, and wearing a mask.