COVID positive lab worker forces suspension of laboratory services at TCI Hospital

#Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 26 August, 2020): The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital has received notification from the Ministry of Health that an employee within the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre (CHMC) – Laboratory Department has been exposed to a confirmed active COVID-19 case.  

Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with public health guidance, other employees within the department and persons considered to be close contacts have been required to self-isolate and undergo immediate COVID-19 testing.  

Due to these developments, effective Wednesday, August 26th 2020, the laboratory department at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre will undergo a robust deep cleaning above the usual sanitization measures. The department’s business continuity plan will be activated to continue essential operations and emergency services. 

Routine laboratory services and Outpatient Phlebotomy services have been temporarily suspended until further notice. An update will be provided once these services resume. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused as a result of this unavoidable development. 

Persons are encouraged to follow the relevant precautions at all times to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include frequent handwashing and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, social distancing, wear masks or face coverings, practice proper respiratory etiquette and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.