Current outbreaks

Last update: May 19, 2022

The current active outbreak list is updated when new outbreaks are declared. When an outbreak is over, the facility is removed from the list.

When is a COVID-19 outbreak declared in a long-term care or assisted living site?

An outbreak may be declared at the direction of the medical health officer (MHO) or their official designate.

Based on the consideration of multiple risk factors, including vaccination coverage rate among residents, the severity of illness amongst cases and the rate of increase in cases, a unit/wing/floor/facility may be placed on outbreak under the direction of the medical health officer, working with the facility leadership and health authority long-term care program, and infection, prevention and control teams.

You can read more on the BCCDC’s COVID-19 Outbreak Management Protocol for Long-Term Care and Seniors’ Assisted Living Settings document.

When is a COVID-19 outbreak declared in an acute care site?

Final determination and declaration of an outbreak is made by the medical health officer (MHO) or their official designate (for acute care).

An outbreak may be declared when at least one staff or patient/resident diagnosed with COVID-19; AND an investigation indicates transmission most likely occurred in the facility, from another patient/resident, visitor or staff, rather than prior to admission (for patients/residents) or from the community (for staff).

You can read more on the BCCDC’s Outbreak Management Protocol for Acute Care Settings document.