Several employees have been told to self-isolate from Toronto Public Health headquarters in the city’s downtown core after eight workers tested positive for coronavirus.
Toronto Public Health confirmed on Monday that there has been an outbreak at the headquarters located at 277 Victoria Street.
In a statement, TPH said it has asked all staff who worked at the location between March 20 to 29 to work from home and self-isolate.
At this time, it is unknown how many employees have been told to self-isolate.
“Given that COVID-19 is spreading in our community, we were prepared for this unfortunate situation,” Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s medical of health, told reporters Monday afternoon, praising the efforts of all public health staff.
“I would like to acknowledge the personal sacrifices of my team.”
Dr. Michael Finkelstein said in a statement that moving forward, all staff at the location will either work from home or be required to wear personal protective equipment while working in the building.
City officials also told Global News that it will look to other closed buildings that employees could potentially work out from.
A deep clean has been done at the building and more active screen will take place.
The building is also a safe-consumption site. When asked about whether those sites should remain open amid the pandemic, Mayor John Tory said they “save lives and protect the vulnerable.”
Ontario reported 351 new coronavirus cases on Monday morning. The total number of cases now stands at 1,706, with 23 deaths.
— With files from Nick Westoll