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COVID-19 outbreak confirmed at Origin at Spring Creek

“We’re doing all the appropriate measures … obviously we want to keep everybody safe and we’re doing everything we absolutely can.”
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A man stands outside Origin at Spring Creek in April at the beginning of the pandemic. CHELSEA KEMP RMO PHOTO

CANMORE – A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at Origin at Spring Creek.

According to Alberta Health, there have been four cases linked to this outbreak at the facility of approximately 120 residents. Of these, two are currently active and two have recovered as of Sunday (Jan. 10).

Origin officials say they are working closely with Alberta Health to prevent further spread.

“We are in an outbreak situation,” said Cindy Drury, general manager of Origin at Spring Creek.

“We’re doing all the appropriate measures … obviously we want to keep everybody safe and we’re doing everything we absolutely can.”

Origin at Spring Creek, a community retirement facility, provides seniors with rental and homeownership opportunities for independent and assisted living.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) publicly reports locations of outbreaks at long-term care facilities when there are two or more people with confirmed COVID-19, however they do not report numbers.

“AHS has recommended enhanced cleaning and enhanced infection and prevention controls to the facility,” said James Wood, director of media relations with AHS, in an email.

Drury said Origin has been following all provincial regulations for a congregate facility, noting residents are physically-distancing and wearing masks.

“They are not going to family members’ homes, and during an outbreak, we are not having any sort of social activities,” she said.

“We’re pretty much watching everything we do every single day and we’re staying safe.”

With COVID-19 vaccinations in the Bow Valley having started this week, Drury said vaccinations at Origin are expected to begin soon.

“We’re in the queue. We’re just waiting or our date here,” she said.

Residents of St. Martha’s Place long-term care at Banff Mineral Springs have been vaccinated and vaccines for Cascade House and Bow River Lodge are scheduled for Monday (Jan. 11).

Vaccinations have been underway at Golden Eagle View long-term care at Canmore General Hospital.

As of Wednesday (Jan. 6), there were 19 active COVID cases in Canmore and 14 in Banff. These numbers will be updated by the province later on Thursday afternoon (Jan. 7).

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Lake Louise Ski Resort experienced outbreaks at the end of 2020. There was also an outbreak at Nakiska Ski Resort.

Outbreaks are declared over when four weeks have passed since the last case was identified.

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