Investigation launched after visitor exposes residents at Calgary Retirement Home with COVID-19

Calgary – The province is investigating a man infected with COVID-19 who visited a relative at a Calgary long-term care home and lied to staff about their test result.

The revelation came on December 7 at AgeCare Seton, a retirement community in southeastern Calgary, according to a memo obtained by CTV News.

The letter states that a family member who knew they were infected visited a unit on the first floor.

The staff tested the person, but did not tell them they had recently tested positive.

As a result, all occupants on the ground were tested for infection.

“Agecare Seton and the COVID-19 Operations Team continue to work diligently to prevent this outbreak and support the safety and well-being of all residents and staff,” the facility wrote in a letter. “We are working under our outreach protocols, closely monitoring the situation and meeting regularly with the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) and public health.”

The outbreak at the building was announced Dec. 8 and officials say two staff members were ill. COVID-19 has not yet been infected by any residents.

Relatives of other residents were shocked by the news of the residents’ infection.

“I can not understand when this will happen,” said John McGrath, whose mother lives in the building. “It simply came to our notice then.

“It’s frustrating, I’m doing my part to stay healthy, so I can see my mother. With the new restrictions we can only see one family member a week.”

With that in mind, he said the person who authorized the occupant was the one who visited the building, knowing that they were contagious and should be under quarantine.

“You exposed the staff who were doing their job to look after our family,” he said. “There may be 300 to 400 people there. Know to go out there and do anything so reckless – I have no words.”

Alberta Health said it was aware of the situation at Agecare Seton.

“A public health investigation is underway. Health officials are collaborating with the operator on this facility and anyone in need will be tested and isolated,” Tom Macmillan, assistant director of Alberta Health Communications, said in an email.

“Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 is legally required to set aside 10 days.”

Alberta’s chief medical officer Dr. Deena Hinsha said during a daily update on Wednesday that it is the responsibility of every Alberts to isolate themselves as soon as they receive a positive COVID-19 result.

“That person is violating the legal order, they should stay away from home and others except for things like getting an examination. Will face penalties.

Hinsha added that Albertans is not the only thing to remember when you consider public health rules about COVID-19, it is also important to note that the rules are enforced.

“You (your loved one)’s life and the lives of others may be in danger. This is not the time to take these things lightly. I remind all Alberts of the decisions they make and the consequences of those decisions.”

CTV News contacted the Calgary Police Service but officials said they were not informed of the incident.

Agecare Seton has not yet responded to a request for comment.