Twenty-four environmental services employees at Carilion Roanoke (Va.) Memorial Hospital recently tested positive for COVID-19, a spokesperson confirmed to Becker's Hospital Review.
The spokesperson, Chris Turnbull, said this outbreak apparently originated from community spread, and the hospital is investigating. The hospital first learned employees were affected on Sept. 9.
"This situation is a good reminder that it is critically important to take the proper precautions both inside and outside of work," he added in a statement to Becker's.
At Carilion Clinic, which owns Carilion Roanoke, precautions for employees include having them complete a daily health questionnaire before starting their shifts. If employees report symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or have been exposed to an individual suspected of having COVID-19, they are required to self-isolate and are referred to human resources, according to the organization.
Mr. Turnbull said employees suspected of having COVID-19 are tested and remain isolated until test results come back, and, in the meantime, the hospital works with the state health department on contact tracing.
Roanoke-based Carilion Clinic owns and operates seven hospitals. At Carilion Roanoke Memorial, more than 250 employees work in the environmental services department.