THUNDER BAY — In yet another sign that the COVID-19 pandemic is currently under control in this area, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre has decided to close its dedicated COVID-19 care unit.
The hospital made the announcement Monday.
It has no admitted patients with COVID-19, and there are no active cases anywhere in the District of Thunder Bay.
In all of Northwestern Ontario, there is only one confirmed active case, in the Kenora area.
The dedicated care unit on 3A at TBRHSC first opened on Feb. 15, 2021.
The hospital said that over the past five months and during the second wave of the pandemic, the unit looked after 261 patients infected with the virus.
"This resulted in many changing circumstances and staff redeployment to areas needing support. While this was not ideal, the staff and professional staff at TBRHSC showed tremendous dedication to the care of patients in our hospital," it said in a statement.
At various times, the hospital was looking after dozens of patients with COVID-19.
The statement said that closing the COVID-19 unit will free up the 3A surgical beds and enhance the hospital's inpatient capacity.
TBRHSC also recently announced the closure of its Bora Laskin COVID-19 vaccination clinic as of July 23, based on high vaccination rates in the community and a significant drop in appointment bookings.
Vaccinations continue to be available through the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and other venues.
