KITCHENER -- Four more people have died from COVID-19 complications in an outbreak at Cedarcroft Place Retirement Home in Stratford.
A total of eight people have died as a result of the outbreak.
"This is a devastating loss to the families and the facility," said Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth Public Health.
Huron Perth health officials reported 34 active cases in residents on Monday, along with 13 active cases in staff.
Frank Glosnek, whose 83-year-old mother lives at the home, said he's worried.
"I haven't slept very well in the past three weeks," he said. "We've been told half of the facility is COVID positive."
A total of 44 residents and 18 staff and 18 staff members have tested positive since the outbreak began on Oct. 28.
Over the weekend, officials moved 10 residents to area hospitals. They said Sunday that they expected to move more people in the coming days.
In an update on Monday, officials said hospitals are making room for Cedarcroft residents by discharging people who have been waiting for a spot at a long-term care home. The homes are making room for the residents, officials said.
Public health officials have recommended stopping all indoor visits for general visitors at long-term care homes in Huron Perth, and limiting essential visitors to one.
Residents should stay in their facilities unless they need health care.
The Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility said it is working with the home to ensure infection prevention and control practices are followed, adding the health and well-being of residents and staff are a top priority.
Glosnek said his mother hasn't been moved to a hospital, but added he's happy that steps are being taken,
"We're hopefully progressing in a positive way," he said.
With reporting by CTV News Kitchener's Stephanie Villella
